Hunger Relief Partner Newsletter

As we enter the first day of the government shutdown, Food Bank of Wyoming is working hand-in-hand with our state partners to closely monitor the situation. You, our valued Hunger Relief Partners, are a priority, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to keeping you informed and resourced during this time. We will continue communicating about any changes and potential impacts to federally funded hunger-relief programs throughout the duration of the shutdown. 

With food insecurity rates at the highest that we’ve seen in a decade and with additional increases in need we’ve seen over the past few months, this will be a challenging time for many with the potential for paycheck disruptions and disruptions to food services to families, children, older adults, military members, and federal employees across Wyoming. 

From information shared by the state and our partner, Feeding America, we understand the following:

• SNAP benefits should continue uninterrupted through October. 
• The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), Evergreen (CSFP), and Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) orders that have already been purchased and confirmed should be delivered as expected.
• WIC benefits and services should be available during a short shutdown.

That said, the above could change depending on the length of this shutdown. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions and concerns. 

As need rises, Food Bank of Wyoming will continue to show up for our communities and our partners. We are stronger together, and we will continue collaborating with each of you to ensure that no Wyomingite goes without the food they need to thrive.

Federal changes are starting to hit our home in Wyoming. Our TEFAP partners are experiencing a lack of items available this month. Unfortunately, this trend will continue, as federal funding dollars aren't going as far. While the USDA has announced additional “bonus” items, Wyoming’s allocation is based on population. This means that larger states receive more variety and quantity, but Wyoming is only scheduled to receive a few additional items, some of which have already been canceled for delivery due to a lack of funding. Please understand that we are actively advocating on behalf of you—our partners—and the neighbors you serve.

Kali McCrackin Goodenough has joined Food Bank of Wyoming as a consultant and is filling a new role, Food Security Policy Advocate. For the past 11 years, she has served as Program Manager and Marketing Specialist for the Cent$ible Nutrition Program, bringing a deep passion and commitment to ensuring food security for all Wyomingites. With the food security landscape shifting across the state, Kali will be working closely with organizations that care about food access, as well as lawmakers, stakeholders, and neighbors with lived experience, to strengthen Wyoming’s safety net and elevate the voices of those most impacted. If you would like to connect with Kali to share your stories, your concerns, or to get involved in this important work, she can be reached through her email: kali.m.goodenough@gmail.com

The Warehouse is getting stocked with Thanksgiving items

We have the following items to get pantries ready for the holidays:

• Corn Muffin Mix
• Sweet Potatoes in Light Syrup
• Stuffing
• Instant Potatoes
• Cranberry Sauce
• Gravy
• Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Turkey Breasts
• Frozen Turkeys

And other new items available for purchase:

• Ground Beef
• Bison Patties
• Chicken

Be on the lookout for these items and more on Agency Express! 

 Important Dates & Reminders:

•   October 31st     Scare Away Hunger  9-11 am    Volunteer Event

   Partners-Please refer to your route schedule for delivery dates & times.

 If you need a copy, please email: helpdesk@wyomingfoodbank.org

The new Icons look like this:

The icons may look a little different, but they still take you to the same places as before. You’ll notice one new icon at the very top—Help Desk. If you run into any issues, simply click on it to fill out and submit a quick support form.

Remember, the partner portal is designed to save you time and make things easier. And don’t forget to check the Forms & Documents tab—it has nearly every form you might need!

Can a cup of coffee change your life?

We think so.

Kind Grounds is a navigation center in Casper, WY, dedicated to supporting neighbors experiencing homelessness. Each day, guests can enjoy hot coffee, breakfast (8–9 a.m.), and lunch (11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.) in a safe, welcoming space. Beyond meals, Kind Grounds connects people with community partners and essential services to help them move forward.

Founded in November 2023 by Rev. Dan Odell, Kind Grounds quickly became a vital hub for individuals in Natrona County. Operating in partnership with Christ United Methodist Church and housed at Grace Lutheran Church, it offers a non-faith-based environment rooted in dignity and compassion. Under the leadership of Rev. Odell, Program Director and Licensed Clinical Social Worker David Allhusen, and a dedicated staff and board, Kind Grounds blends immediate relief with long-term pathways to stability.

Its mission is simple yet powerful: distribute resources, provide compassionate support, and create opportunities for lasting socioeconomic stability. Core services include two daily meals, safe rest areas during business hours, and crisis counseling. Guests may also join classes in menu planning, smoothie-making, and brain health; take part in community forums; receive auricular acupuncture and free haircuts; and access transportation through bus passes. Partnerships with Community Action Partnership and other local organizations ensure coordinated care that addresses both urgent needs and systemic barriers.

As the Food Bank of Wyoming’s Spotlight Partner for October, Kind Grounds is honored to be recognized for its whole-person approach. Together, our partnership strengthens meal provision, nutrition education, and the shared belief that food access is central to health, stability, and dignity. In less than two years, Kind Grounds has shown that homelessness can be a temporary phase rather than a permanent condition—when the right supports are in place.

Kind Grounds now has a Coffee Blend by Metro Coffee of Casper. Available Now, Order coffee from David Allhusen at: director@kindgrounds.org suggested donation $20.00/ bag or First United Methodist Church each 3rd Sunday 8:30 - 11am.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Food Bank of Wyoming aspires to meet individuals where they are with the foods they need based on their unique circumstances and culture. We show up for any person experiencing hunger knowing that food insecurity can impact any of us at various points in our lives. Today, we may be packing produce for a person facing an unforeseen health crisis and tomorrow we may be providing a weekend food bag to a child whose caregiver may be struggling to find a well-paying job. The circumstances may be different, but we never waver from our mission of igniting the power of community to nourish people facing hunger.

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