CSS Auburn

Auburn Office | St. Francis Gift & Thrift

Regional Roundup | CSS AUBURN: Community Resilience

Damage from May 2026 Auburn Nebraska Tornadoes

In Auburn, our work continues to be defined by moments of profound connection and resilience. We are humbled by the opportunity to walk alongside our neighbors, whether they are visiting us for the first time or facing unexpected challenges.

Auburn has faced significant challenges recently since two tornadoes caused widespread damage and power outages throughout the city and surrounding communities. No one was left untouched by the devastation. Moments after the storms passed, residents immediately banded together to check on one another, clear roads of heavy debris, and assist with yard work.  

The City of Auburn issued a disaster declaration. Witnessing the immediate response was truly inspiring. A massive effort by local residents, alongside coordinated help from nearby counties, regional relief organizations, and specialized volunteer groups sprang to action without hesitation. Auburn was flooded with help and good hearts that showed up with chainsaws, trucks and trailers, manpower and love, and the words “How can I help?”

We were honored to be part of that relief effort. From providing essential supplies (water to workers!) to helping families secure emergency resources (gift cards and financial assistance), we saw firsthand the power of neighbors caring for neighbors.

We wish to extend our thanks to Auburn’s Backpack Program, which generously donated extra food for us to distribute throughout the summer. Taking care of one another is what small towns do best!

As we continue our work, we carry these stories of grace and perseverance with us. Please keep the Auburn community in your prayers as we continue to repair our beautiful town, and may we all continue to find ways to be a blessing to one another. 

🫶🏻Support CSS Auburn

CHARLIE'S PROJECT

Do you want to brighten someone’s day? Donate to our CSS Food Market birthday section! We need:

  • Cake mix
  • Frosting
  • Cards Candles
  • Disposable Cake Pans

Donation Drop Off at St. Francis Gift & Thrift (1014 Central Ave, Auburn):

WED 10am-2pm TH 2pm-6pm SAT 9am-1pm

-OR- Donate money towards our project: click here and under special designation choose "Charlie's Project (Auburn Food Market)"


CSS Auburn Food Market Most Needed Items

If you wish to donate to our CSS Food Market, please leave a message at 402-327-6242 to set up a drop-off time. Donations can ALWAYS be brought to St Francis Gift & Thrift during open store hours. 

While any nonperishable item is appreciated, some items prove especially helpful to fill in the gaps and best meet the needs of those we serve. 

Food Items

  • Baking Essentials
  • Baking Mixes (Brownie, Cake, Cookie, Corn Muffin)
  • Boxed Meal Kits (ex: Hamburger Helper)
  • Boxed potatoes (mashed, scalloped, etc.)
  • Canned Soups
  • Condiments (plastic bottles)
  • Crackers
  • Granola/Protein Bars
  • Hot & Cold Cereals
  • Stuffing Mix

Personal Care Items

  • Laundry detergent
  • Dish Soap
  • Baby Wipes
  • Cleaning wipes 
  • Paper Towels
  • Toilet Paper
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Deodorant

Donate Other Items

Household items may be brought to our Auburn CSS Gift & Thrift store. Click here for more information.

To better serve and uphold the dignity of our clients, we have established guidelines for our donation program and we ask that all potential donors of furniture or larger items fill out a screening form. Click here for our online form.

Donate Money

Your gifts, both large and small, will help us bring Hope in the Good Life to those we serve together in the 5 county area served by our outreach office. Click here to donate online.

Volunteer

Our Auburn office offers many opportunities for individuals, families, and parish communities to serve those in need. Ultimately, we are about service to one another: the disabled, the aged, the newcomer, and the poor among us. Click here to fill out our simple online volunteer application.