CHEYENNE (WNE) — With food insecurity rates at a more than 10-year high, Food Bank of Wyoming is introducing new ways to get involved, making it easier than ever for supporters to help ignite the power of community and nourish neighbors facing hunger — no matter where they live.

“We received a lot of requests from people and businesses throughout the state who want to volunteer, but don’t live near our distribution center in the Casper area,” Food Bank of Wyoming Development Manager Jenna Noelle said in a news release. “We wanted to create opportunities for people to help make an impact, rather than having to point them somewhere else.”

To help fill that gap, Food Bank of Wyoming has launched To-Go Volunteer Projects, allowing individuals, groups and companies across the state to get involved from their own communities. The following projects allow volunteers to give back for a few hours at a time, in a place that works for them.

• Produce bag production: Support the Food Bank’s operations by cutting and tying some of the more than 5,000 mesh bags used every month to pack and distribute fresh produce.
• Hygiene kits: Create hygiene kits to help neighbors access essential personal care items with dignity and confidence. Most supplies are purchased by the volunteer group, making this an easy, team-friendly service project. Razors are among the most requested items.
• Birthday in a Box: Create birthday cake kits to help neighbors celebrate special occasions. Most supplies are purchased by the volunteer group, making this an inexpensive, low-lift volunteer project with meaningful impact.
• Food box cards: Create hand-drawn cards to send messages of support to recipients of the Food Bank’s mobile pantries. This project is flexible, easy and a fun, creative outlet for employees and community members.

To-Go Volunteer Project kits are delivered by Food Bank of Wyoming trucks with all instructions and supplies. Once completed, the projects are picked up during a future delivery route, allowing businesses, organizations and individuals across the state to volunteer on their own schedule.

Volunteers can explore To-Go Volunteer Projects at wyomingfoodbank.org/get-involved/volunteer.

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