Despite losing a $535,000 grant, the Food Bank of Wyoming is determined to continue its mission of fighting food insecurity across the state.
The grant, which came from the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Local Food for Schools (LFS) Cooperative Agreement Program, allowed the food bank to purchase fresh food directly from local suppliers. However, the USDA has decided not to renew funding for the program this year, citing a shift toward long-term solutions rather than pandemic-era initiatives.
The food bank received $551,000 from the program in 2023, which helped fund fresh food purchases for local communities. The grant money was distributed to the state and then reimbursed to the food bank for food purchases. With no additional funding expected after July, the organization will need to rely on donations and volunteers to continue its efforts.
Executive Director Jill Stillwagon emphasized that while the loss of funding is concerning, the food bank remains committed to its work.
“Anytime there’s an elimination or adjustment to funds, we’re worried, but our mission hasn’t changed,” Stillwagon said. “We’ll keep showing up every month, and we’re going to nourish people facing hunger.”
Wyoming has seen rising levels of food insecurity over the past decade. According to Stillwagon, one in seven adults and one in five children in the state struggles with food insecurity. Programs like the drive-up mobile food pantries in Rock Springs and other communities help bridge the gap for families in need.
Local volunteers, including Ken Lorimer of Rock Springs, say the community remains committed to supporting the food bank’s work.
“As long as the Food Bank of Wyoming can continue providing groceries, I will continue to volunteer,” Lorimer said. “This program shines brightly as a sign of what a wonderful community we have here in Sweetwater County.”
The USDA’s decision to end funding for the LFS program has also raised concerns among local farmers and ranchers.
BJ Edwards, executive director of the Wyoming Food Coalition, noted that many farmers and ranchers plan their seasons and infrastructure investments well in advance. The loss of funding creates uncertainty for those who relied on food bank and school purchases of locally grown products.
“Those are the people I worry about the most—the ones that have already invested their time, effort, and money,” Edwards explained.
According to the Wyoming Department of Education, local food purchases for schools grew by 2,000% last year, highlighting the importance of these programs.
Stillwagon and her team are now focusing on alternative funding sources to maintain their programs. She encourages donors to step up, noting that every dollar donated provides three meals for those in need.
“No matter what’s going on now, our goal is still the same—we will keep nourishing people who are experiencing food insecurity in Wyoming,” she said.
The Food Bank of Wyoming is urging community members to donate or volunteer, and more information can be found on their website: wyomingfoodbank.org.
With input from Laramie Boomerang and Kiowa County Press.
