TORRINGTON – WYO Help, a prominent local non-profit organization focused on assisting individuals and families in need in eastern Wyoming, has officially announced the end of its partnership with the Salvation Army. This decision is part of a strategic shift aimed at improving service delivery and better meeting the unique needs of the community.

Previously, WYO Help collaborated with the Salvation Army, with its Denver office processing donations and managing requests for assistance on behalf of WYO Help. However, according to WYO Help’s Executive Director, Kyle Borger, logistical challenges arising from the involvement of multiple offices and staffing limitations led to slower processing times. This, in turn, affected the organization’s ability to provide timely assistance to those facing hardship in the area.

To replace the previous program, WYO Help has launched the Good Neighbor Program. This new initiative encourages direct financial and resource donations, as well as organizes volunteer opportunities. Executive Director Kyle Borger explained that the goal of the Good Neighbor Program is to create opportunities for every community member to support WYO Help’s mission to “improve the quality of life for people in need by empowering them to become more self-sufficient.” This emphasis on empowerment, rather than just providing temporary relief, aligns with WYO Help’s long-term vision of building a self-sustaining community where individuals are equipped with the tools and support to regain independence.

Through the Good Neighbor Program, community members are encouraged to donate directly to the program, creating a circle of local support that will strengthen ties within the community. While donations have historically represented a smaller portion of WYO Help’s overall funding, the organization anticipates that the Good Neighbor Program will help increase local contributions. Grant funding, which makes up the bulk of WYO Help’s budget, often comes with stipulations, such as income eligibility limits, that may restrict the organization’s ability to serve certain individuals or families in need. The flexibility of the Good Neighbor Program, however, will allow WYO Help to provide assistance without the constraints that come with grant funding.

By assuming full control over the processing of donations and requests for assistance, WYO Help aims to increase its responsiveness to the community’s needs and streamline its support systems. This shift will enable WYO Help to more directly manage resources and ensure that individuals and families receive the help they require. Additionally, the implementation of the Good Neighbor Program will allow the organization to use data collected over time, along with community feedback, to continuously improve and adapt its services to meet the evolving needs of the area.

With the departure from the Salvation Army and the launch of the Good Neighbor Program, WYO Help is entering a new era of service. The organization is committed to ensuring that local residents receive timely, personalized support in their times of need, and the operational changes are expected to significantly enhance its ability to fulfill that mission. By building on the strong foundation of its existing services and introducing innovative new programs, WYO Help hopes to foster a more connected and resilient community in eastern Wyoming.

For more information about the Good Neighbor Program and how you can get involved, visit the WYO Help website or contact the organization directly at (307) 532-0269.