federal government shutdown

Federal funding has been restored to Wyoming’s home heating assistance program, albeit delayed. More than 3,900 applications have been pending since the program ran out of money on Oct. 15.

Wyoming SNAP benefits could start hitting accounts as soon as Friday. Meanwhile, LIEAP has yet to be refunded by federal lawmakers.

The effort is a response to the ongoing back-and-forth about funding for federal SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps.

The report adds the number of kids living in poverty in the state would more than double without the support of public programs like child tax credits or food assistance.

Providing food, personal hygiene products, baby and pet supplies

The money will go to organizations and churches running food banks and food pantries across the state.

At least 1 in 5 Interior cuts could be in the Mountain West.

Roughly 28,000 Wyomingites receive SNAP benefits each month, with an average payment of about $185 per person.

A draft bill that would kickstart the request comes as nearly 30,000 food benefits recipients in Wyoming won’t get their payments to buy food next month if the government shutdown continues.

The Sheridan-headquartered nonprofit Volunteers of America Northern Rockies is currently running the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program on its own dime.