CASPER, Wyo. — As Thanksgiving approaches, the Food Bank of Wyoming is spearheading efforts to ensure everyone in the state can enjoy a traditional holiday meal. This season marks its busiest period, with increased demands for food aid across Wyoming.
Rachel Bailey, executive director of Food Bank of Wyoming, highlighted the growing need for assistance.
“We are continuing to see an increase in need across the state, and we’re spending more on food this year than in years past,” Bailey states.
The Food Bank plays a pivotal role in distributing essential food items through its 19 mobile pantries and over 150 Hunger Relief Partners. These partners are requesting various items, from gravy mixes and canned goods to fresh produce like celery, potatoes and turkey.
Impact on Wyoming Lives
Take it from a neighbor visiting Joshua’s Storehouse, a Food Bank of Wyoming Hunger Relief Partner in Casper, who said, “I live on $500 per month. Joshua’s recently had steak, which I had not bought in 20 years. There were carrots, a pound of butter, shredded cheese, all of which I had not bought in years. I was like a kid in a candy store looking at my cart. I might have cried a little.”
In Cheyenne, Needs Inc. is also working tirelessly to stock up on traditional Thanksgiving items sourced from the Food Bank. These efforts aim to bring the comfort of a holiday meal to many tables in the community.
Jill Stillwagon, Food Bank of Wyoming Director of Development, emphasized the impact of financial donations.
“The best way to support our Wyoming neighbors who are seeking food assistance from Food Bank of Wyoming, or any of our mobile pantries or Hunger Relief Partners, is to make a financial donation,” Stillwagon states. “We’re able to make three meals out of one dollar, which allows us to make a bigger impact.”
The Food Bank of Wyoming encourages those who can contribute to consider making a financial donation. Such contributions allow them to effectively combat food insecurity and ensure a nourishing Thanksgiving for all.
To support these efforts, visit the Food Bank of Wyoming website to make a donation.
