When challenges and hunger arise, Food Bank of Wyoming is there to answer the challenge. The truth is, food insecurity in Wyoming has only increased in the past two years, which has required Food Bank of Wyoming to pivot its programs and initiatives to be able to provide state-wide support. In 2023, Food Bank of Wyoming distributed enough food to provide the daily equivalent of more than 23,800 meals – a 9% increase over the previous year and the highest amount distributed since 2021.
No matter the challenge, Food Bank of Wyoming aims to meet Wyoming neighbors where they are. Thanks to our 150 Hunger Relief Partners across Wyoming and through the following programs, Food Bank of Wyoming works to ensure nutritious food is accessible to all.
Mobile Pantries
Food Bank of Wyoming operates 19 mobile pantries across the state, primarily in rural communities to ensure every Wyomingite has consistent access to nourishing food at no-cost. Mobile Pantries provide shelf stable food box with fresh produce to those seeking food assistance and support communities where the need is greater. Take the Douglas Mobile Pantry, for example. After the local food pantry closed last fall, Food Bank of Wyoming partnered with the community to hold pop-up mobile pantries to fill the gap. While working with community members to support a permanent location.
FRESH Express Route
In October 2023, Food Bank of Wyoming piloted a new delivery route called the FRESH Express Route. That has been able to distribute an additional 320,000 pounds of produce since launching. The FRESH Express Route allows Food Bank of Wyoming to deliver fresh produce to more than 50 Hunger Relief Partners more frequently, plus pick up food from local producers to distribute Wyoming-grown food directly to communities. Food Bank of Wyoming believes fresh produce is a critical component to ensure neighbors are not just fed but nourished. While the Food Bank still stocks their distribution center and Hunger Relief Partners with shelf-stable food items, fresh produce is essential to reduce risk factors that are associated with poor diet and low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Virtual Find Food Tool
Late last year, Food Bank of Wyoming launched their new virtual tool to help neighbors find no-cost food distributions and programs. This innovative tool is a resource for Wyomingites looking for an easy and convenient way to find food distribution locations closest to them. The virtual” Find Food” tool empowers people to explore the Food Bank’s network of food pantries, Hunger Relief partners, and nearby distribution sites simply by entering an address, zip code, or city.
Food Bank of Wyoming continues to address hunger across Wyoming thanks to the support of their donors. With just $1 providing enough food for as many as three meals, every dollar makes a difference. Help Food Bank of Wyoming provide the food and peace of mind Wyoming’s residents need to thrive. Make a donation to their Annual Fund today.
To donate and learn more about Food Bank of Wyoming, visit wyomingfoodbank.org. Food Bank of Wyoming is the largest hunger-relief organization in Wyoming and provides food and essentials directly to people facing hunger and through more than 150 Hunger Relief Partners across the state. We’ve put the power of community to work for our neighbors in need. We serve as the Wyoming Distribution Center of Food Bank of the Rockies, which is a proud member of the Feeding America network. Everything we do is fueled by the support of our community and donors, and every dollar raised in Wyoming stays in Wyoming. For more information, visit wyomingfoodbank.org. To request an interview with Food Bank of Wyoming’s Executive Director, please contact Jessica Stanbury at jes@lumstudio.com.
