August 29, 2024
September is National Hunger Action Month, highlighting the ongoing issue of food insecurity in Wyoming. Laramie Interfaith has increased food distribution to support those in need. Gratitude is extended to the community for their contributions. Events like the Tackle Hunger Event and food drives demonstrate continued support. As the school year begins, the community remains united in the fight against hunger.
Hello Laramigos!
September is National Hunger Action Month. While the need for food in our community does not rise or decline in September, it is another chance for us to remember our neighbors' struggles. Just this year, the Food Bank of Wyoming released information that shows one in seven individuals in Wyoming, including one in five children around our state, struggle with food insecurity. A significant increase over 2023.
Most of us are aware of this. We have all faced price increases across the board at the grocery store. In Wyoming, the estimated price per meal increased from $3.50 to $3.90 this year. Also, this year, Laramie Interfaith worked to redesign how our pantry distributes food. Our neighbors have access to more than 50% more food each week, and we are working to ensure we can build on this success.
This month is another chance to express our sincere gratitude to our community and partners – those who continue to invest in our community, join the fight against food insecurity, and continue supporting our work.
With the total matches for WyoGives released, we raised more than $43,000 in a single day. Like other donations to Laramie Interfaith, 100% of these funds stay here in Laramie and serve our neighbors. Here in September, we have just as much to celebrate and be grateful for.
Join us on September 7 to watch the Cowboys beat the Idaho State Vandals. Stop by Ridley's Tent in the Indoor Practice Facility, where the Wyoming Hunger Initiative, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Ridley's host the Tackle Hunger Event. Our local Ridley's store is back with more $5-bags and every bag helps feed our neighbors.
Go cheer on the Laramie Plainsmen for homecoming on September 13 as they take on Cheyenne Central. But most importantly, thank these young men for putting together a food drive that will benefit us. A few cans of food will get you admission to the game, but it will also recognize the character of these students who are taking the time to learn, recognize, and act on the problem to better our community. Something we can all learn from.
On Saturday, September 14, UW continues the rivalry with BYU. And there will be nothing to compare with watching the Cougars slink back to Utah as the Cowboys run up the score. But as you cheer on the Cowboys, thank a BYU fan. The Denver BYU Alumni have organized a large-scale food drive to benefit the UW Food Share Pantry, Laramie Interfaith, and the Laramie Soup Kitchen. Win or lose, these fans deserve our thanks forgiving the time and consideration to our community.
As the school year, United Way Campaign, and holiday season begin in earnest in September, our hearts are already full. Thank you, Laramie.
Go Plainsmen and Go Cowboys!
Josh Watanabe
Executive Director
As our mission continues, we will have more and more insight into what we strive for in the Laramie community. Stay tuned to what we are up too with more of our press releases:
