As COVID-19 impacts the state, Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies is increasing food distributions and organizing more mobile pantries to help households in need of food.

Mobile pantries are scheduled in Greybull and Cody on Saturday. In Greybull, food will be distributed from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Greybull High School, 500 U.S. Highway 20. The Cody mobile pantry will be set up from 1-4 p.m. at Stampede Park, on West Yellowstone Avenue. A mobile pantry also is scheduled for Saturday, May 30 in Thermopolis from 1-4 p.m. at the middle school, 1450 Valleyview Dr.

The mobile pantries reflect a drive-thru model that protects the public, staff and volunteers during this time of social distancing, organizers say. Anyone affected by the COVID-19 crisis is welcomed — and encouraged — to utilize any of the mobile pantries, the Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies said in a press release.

Each household will receive a box of shelf-stable items, a bag of fresh produce and a bag of protein products.

Those picking up food at a mobile pantry are asked to have space cleared in their vehicle before arriving in the line.

“We will need enough room to provide you with at least one week’s worth of food for a family of four,” said Myriam Wolcott, program manager for the Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies.

In the month of April, over 1.8 million pounds of food were distributed by Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies in communities throughout the state. In addition to the mobile pantries, the organization has provided additional support to over 180 partners across the state.

“Because more and more Wyomingites struggle to get food to their tables, I have called on our staff as never before ... to work harder, smarter as we work together to nourish those Wyomingites who are in need,” said Tony Woodell, director of the Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies. 

The nonprofit is working with its funders, including First Lady Jennie Gordon’s Wyoming Hunger Initiative, to provide the food and essentials that communities require, Woodell said.

Dates, times, or locations may change due to weather or logistical concerns. Residents are encouraged to check Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies’ website for updates: http://wyomingfoodbank.org/mobile-pantries-wyoming/. Volunteers are needed at some of the mobile pantries. To register as a volunteer, contact Wolcott at 307-232-4020.