Feeding Laramie Valley (FLV) has secured two grants totaling $137,485 to address food insecurity and enhance infrastructure. These funds are part of the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant Program, which Wyoming has used to distribute $8.1 million to eligible organizations tackling health inequities in underserved communities.

Expanding Food Support for Albany County

A $20,570 Basic Needs grant will support FLV’s Shares Program, which provides free fresh produce to over 750 individuals weekly, with an additional 100 people joining each month. The grant will help FLV meet the rising food insecurity in Albany County, now affecting 15.3% of the population. To prioritize public health, FLV offers deliveries for those with mobility or health challenges.

Upgrading Infrastructure for Broader Impact

The $116,935 Infrastructure grant will fund critical upgrades, including:

• Remodeling the FLV kitchen at the historic Fort Sanders building with a commercial-grade hood, range, dishwasher, and ventilation system.
• Modifying FLV’s Mobile Market bus for improved food distribution.

These changes will support existing programs like Shares and Kids Out to Lunch, which serves over 3,000 free meals each summer at LaBonte Park. The grant will also enable FLV to add a new service location in West Laramie.

Additionally, FLV plans to share its upgraded commercial kitchen with local food producers, boosting the local food economy through its Satanka Food and Community Innovation Hub launched earlier this year.

This funding will enhance food safety, increase accessibility, and expand sustainable food services throughout Albany County.

To learn more about the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant Program, visit Align Team’s website.