CASPER, WY — The Wyoming Rescue Mission has launched a Thanksgiving drive to provide 250 meal boxes for families facing hardship in the Casper area. Donations are being accepted through November 20, and volunteers are needed to help pack, prepare and serve the holiday meals.
How the community can help
Executive Director Risa Petrie emphasized the mission’s belief that no family should wonder whether there will be a Thanksgiving meal. “Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table, and no family in our community should have to wonder whether there will be a meal on it,” she said in a press release.
The nonprofit is asking local businesses, churches and individual donors to contribute essential food items, including potatoes, dinner rolls, canned cranberry sauce, cream of mushroom soup, canned green beans, french‑fried onions, canned yams, gravy packets, stuffing mixes, turkeys and pies. All contributions will be collected at the mission’s headquarters at 230 North Park Street between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. each day until the deadline.
Volunteer opportunities
In addition to food donations, the mission needs hands‑on help. Volunteers are needed on November 22, 23 and 24 to prepare the Thanksgiving meals, and on November 25 and 26 to serve them. Those interested can sign up through the Wyoming Rescue Mission’s website.
On November 25, the mission will host a community Thanksgiving meal that is open to anyone who wishes to join. Petrie expressed gratitude for the ongoing support, noting, “We are so grateful to this community, which has always shown up for its neighbors, and we invite everyone to help us make this holiday a little brighter and a true blessing for those who need it most.”
Why the effort matters
Wyoming’s winter months can be especially challenging for families struggling with unemployment or housing insecurity. By providing a complete Thanksgiving meal, the mission aims to alleviate one of the season’s most pressing needs—ensuring that families can celebrate with a full, nourishing dinner.
The mission’s Discipleship Recovery Program will handle the final delivery of the meal boxes on November 20, bringing the prepared packages directly to families throughout the Casper region.
How to get involved
Donors can drop off food items at the mission’s North Park Street location during the stated hours. Volunteers should visit the mission’s website to register for a shift, whether they prefer cooking, packing or serving. Community members are also encouraged to attend the open Thanksgiving meal on November 25 to share in fellowship and support their neighbors.
This collaborative effort reflects the strong tradition of faith‑based service and volunteerism that characterizes Casper’s neighborhoods. By rallying together, residents can ensure that the holiday season is a time of gratitude and generosity for all families, regardless of their circumstances.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
