OUR FOCUS
Building Connected, Thriving Communities
Research shows that the neighborhoods where we grow up are one of the largest indicators of our future health and success. In Cedar Rapids, there is a 10-year difference in life expectancy and a $20,000 difference in household income at age 35 in the neighborhoods Matthew 25 serves.
We’re working to close that gap through our Four Pillars of Strong Neighborhoods.
Our Stores
Leveraging Community and Commerce
Matthew 25 has developed and launched two innovative projects open to all, serving the healthy food needs of Cedar Rapids’ core neighborhoods and beyond.
Fresh, healthy food for all
A healthy food hub for Time Check
More than $10 Million invested in Cedar Rapids neighborhoods
Generated 200,000+ volunteer hours
Who We Are
Neighbors Serving Neighbors
Matthew 25 is a homegrown nonprofit dedicated to serving the specific needs of the Cedar Rapids area community. Since our founding in 2006, we’ve collectively invested more than $10 million in Cedar Rapids neighborhoods and generated 200,000+ volunteer hours.
Get Involved
Help Us Grow
Stronger Neighborhoods
We can’t do this alone. Donate, partner or volunteer with us as we
continue to invest in the Cedar Rapids community.
Here’s how you can help:
Latest News
Take a Look at What’s Happening
Check out what we’ve been up to lately and what’s coming soon. Learn about upcoming events and other ways to get involved.
Explore Our Content
Blog
Summer Stories: Youth Development Program, Week 1
Our Summer Youth Development Program kicked off June 30—and the first week was all about growth, learning, and action!
Read Article
Blog
Courtney Ball Named Interim Executive Director
As co-founder and current Community Building Director, Courtney brings knowledge and experience to the role
Read Article
Stories of Impact
How One Rental Opened the Door to Homeownership
After being released from federal prison, Brian (name changed) had a difficult time finding someone to rent him a home despite having found a good job. He eventually got connected with Matthew 25 and found a home in one of our affordable rental properties. He became a model tenant, reconnected with his family, and has since purchased his own home.
Stories of Impact
Healthy Food During Cancer Treatments
While being treated for cancer, one of our Cultivate Hope Corner Store shoppers has been stocking up on our Good Meals To Go with every visit. She needs healthy food to strengthen her body during this process and was thrilled to discover that she can get a well-rounded meal at an affordable price, without the stress of shopping, planning, and cooking.
Stories of Impact
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
A volunteer team finished some much-needed repairs for a neighbor with a brain tumor during our annual Transform Week. These repairs helped make the home livable and has inspired the homeowner to do more to make it feel like a home, including hanging up pictures.
Stories of Impact
Community Built at Groundswell Cafe
One of Groundswell Cafe’s regular customers made sure to bring her daughter, who she had recently reunited with, to the Cafe and introduce her to “her friends” on staff.
Stories of Impact
Derecho Repairs Help Home and Family
A mother of two received much-needed derecho repair assistance through the PATCH Program. Every bit of work on this home created peace of mind and alleviated serious stress, but also created a safe environment for her family.
SEE WHAT WE DO
Matthew 25 in Action
You might wonder what a grocery store, a tool library, and a café have in common. Our organization does a lot, but each effort serves the same mission: to shape a better Cedar Rapids. Our non-profit provides the programs, opportunities, and education needed to improve the health of people and neighborhoods. Watch our explainer video to learn more.