CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Hunger Initiative has completed its transition to an independent nonprofit organization after operating for six years as a program of the Wyoming Governor’s Residence Foundation.
The Internal Revenue Service granted the initiative tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(3) entity, with the official transition taking effect Sept. 30.
First Lady Jennie Gordon launched the initiative in October 2019 as her signature project through the Governor’s Residence Foundation, which was established in 1989 to preserve the historic governor’s residence and support charitable projects of Wyoming’s first spouse.
Since its inception, the initiative has served as a unifying force among anti-hunger organizations across the state. By elevating local efforts, providing strategic support and investing in sustainable solutions, the organization has reached all 23 Wyoming counties and every Wyoming tribe.
The initiative has distributed millions of dollars to food pantries, backpack programs, food producers and hunger-relief organizations statewide. Its innovative programs have established new standards for collaboration across sectors in addressing food insecurity.
“From the beginning, Wyoming Hunger Initiative has been about empowering communities to fight food insecurity in ways are local, lasting and uniquely Wyoming,” Gordon said. “As it becomes an independent organization, I am incredibly proud of the foundation we’ve built—and confident in the team’s ability to carry this mission forward with strength and vision.”
The organization addresses food insecurity affecting approximately 83,000 Wyoming residents. Through its community-driven approach, the initiative has developed solutions tailored to the unique challenges facing different regions of the state.
The transition to independent status will provide the organization greater flexibility to expand operations, deepen its impact and develop new partnerships across the state and beyond. The initiative will continue its core mission to end hunger in Wyoming while pursuing additional opportunities for outreach, education and systemic change.
Board members, staff and partners are coordinating closely with state and local stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition and continuity of services. Leadership emphasized the organization’s commitment to maintaining strong relationships with existing partners while building new collaborations.
As an independent entity, the Wyoming Hunger Initiative will have enhanced capacity to pursue grant opportunities, develop innovative programming and respond to emerging needs in communities across the state.
More information is available at www.nohungerwyo.org.
