LEXINGTON, Neb. — Around 100 residents, community leaders and agency representatives gathered Tuesday afternoon in Lexington to discuss resources and support available in the wake of the announced Tyson plant closure in January.

The meeting aimed to connect families with employment options, financial assistance and educational resources while avoiding duplication of services.

Lexington Community Liaison Marnie Baker opened the meeting by emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

"We wanted to come together as a community to make sure were not duplicating resources, but extending them further," she said.

State and local officials, including Senator Teresa Ibach, praised the citys proactive response. "This is the best example of how a community should respond," said Ibach.

Representatives from the Nebraska Department of Labor outlined upcoming rapid response sessions and job fairs, designed to provide guidance on unemployment benefits, job opportunities and career transitions.

Multiple organizations presented support options, with the Department of Health and Human Services offering workforce coordination, tuition assistance, ESL and GED programs and SNAP benefits.

Proteus (National Farmworker Jobs Program) are providing retraining, education support and enrollment assistance for employees, spouses and children.

Local banks and financial institutions offered guidance on managing paychecks, mortgages and other financial concerns.

Baker emphasized the ongoing nature of the effort. "We want to continue to support our community through each stage of this. The process will evolve as families needs change," she said.

The meeting also highlighted language accessibility, with materials and presentations planned in five languages. Local agencies are coordinating to ensure information reaches all residents effectively.

Community members and leaders expressed optimism about the citys resilience and the power of coordinated support.

"The amount of people here really shows how strong Lexington can be," said Baker. "We want to keep families here and continue supporting them through the needs they have. It will take all of us working together, but Lexington is a strong community and we will continue to be strong."