The Food Bank of Wyoming has announced a Holiday Matching Gift Challenge aimed at addressing food insecurity during the holiday season, Oil City News reports.
Thanks to a generous contribution from the John P. Ellbogen Foundation, every dollar donated through Dec. 31 will be matched, up to $125,000, effectively doubling the impact of each contribution.
“This generous gift comes at a crucial time,” the Food Bank stated.
The Food Bank noted that it has faced increased demand throughout the year. Working with over 150 Hunger Relief Partners, the organization has provided assistance to more than 55,000 people during the 2024 fiscal year, with 22% of recipients being children.
The holidays can bring tough financial choices for many Wyoming families, with expenses such as heating, rent, and food competing for limited resources. The Food Bank’s matching campaign aims to alleviate these pressures by ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals during the season.
“For many Wyoming families, the holiday season can bring difficult choices: buying food, paying rent, or covering other necessary expenses… This campaign seeks to ease these burdens, ensuring every neighbor can enjoy nutritious meals and meaningful moments with their loved ones,” the release noted.
Funds raised through the challenge will help provide traditional holiday foods such as stuffing, green beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy, corn, and apples.
Danica Sveda, Director of Development at Food Bank of Wyoming, emphasized the growing need for assistance.
“This time of year, many people around Wyoming feel the strain of rising costs on their budgets and dinner tables… With added pressure on holiday spending, along with increased heating and household bills, the need for food assistance is greater this season,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to the John P. Ellbogen Foundation for their matching gift, which will help distribute more nourishing food across the state.
Those interested in participating in the Holiday Matching Gift Challenge can make a donation at wyomingfoodbank.org/give. Every dollar contributed will be matched, ensuring more families receive the support they need during the holiday season.
