Bud’s Thrift Shoppe History

Bud’s Thrift Shoppe is named in honor of Pastor Bud Christenson, the founder of Bridges to Hope, and serves as a vital fundraiser for the nonprofit organization. Bridges to Hope supports individuals who have been incarcerated and are working to rebuild their lives as they re-enter society. Rhonda Mattingly, the Executive Director of Bridges to Hope (2015–present) and the founder of Bud’s Thrift Shoppe, enlisted Kathy Herr, a seasoned consignment store owner, to help establish the store.

​

The original Bud’s Thrift Shoppe opened in November 2017, located next to the Bridges to Hope warehouse. Although the location provided space, it lacked visibility and walk-in traffic, limiting its potential. In the fall of 2018, Rhonda met with a landlord who owned a property on O Street, right in the heart of downtown Lincoln. After months of negotiations and renovations, the new store opened on June 20, 2019, at 2226 O Street.

​

While Bud’s Thrift Shoppe is open to the public, individuals reentering society through Bridges to Hope have the opportunity to “shop” for necessary items at no cost if they are unable to find what they need.

​

As a privately funded nonprofit, Bridges to Hope relies on donations, fundraisers, and local grants to sustain its work. The sale of donated items—ranging from home décor and special household goods to select furniture and clothing—generates crucial funds that directly support Bridges to Hope’s mission. 

​

Bridges to Hope is located at 3107 S. 6th Street, Suite 107, Lincoln, NE, and is the primary drop off site for donations.

​

Bud's Thrift Shoppe is located at 2226 "O" Street, Lincoln, NE​​​