Casper, Wyo. – As single-digit Temperatures return after a recent stretch of milder weather, Wyoming Rescue Mission is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for food, shelter, and mental health support across the Casper community — and the need is expected to intensify as an upcoming cold snap approaches the region.
So far this February, the Mission has seen a 16% increase in overall service demand compared to the same time last year. In January alone, the Mission served 8,764 meals and provided safe shelter for 202 men, 75 women, and 13 children. January is historically the Mission’s highest service month for meals.
This rise in need is coming primarily from within the Casper area, underscoring that the growing demand reflects challenges facing local individuals and families. While there are hopeful signs for long-term economic improvement, many in the community continue to experience the ongoing effects of inflation, housing instability, and financial strain. For households already living paycheck to paycheck, even small disruptions can quickly lead to crisis. Anyone in need of a hot meal is welcome.
“Our community is facing significant and complex challenges,” said Brad Hopkins, Executive Director of Wyoming Rescue Mission. “Warmer days can give the impression that things are stabilizing, but the reality is that more of our neighbors are struggling to meet basic needs. With colder temperatures returning soon, we anticipate even greater pressure on our shelter and services.”
In addition to providing meals and safe overnight shelter, the Mission is seeing a growing need for mental health care. Many guests arrive carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, depression, and the emotional toll of prolonged financial hardship. To address these challenges, the Mission employs two licensed clinical therapists who provide counseling services free of charge to all guests, thanks to generous community support.
“These are our neighbors — individuals and families navigating job loss, rising costs, and personal crises,” Hopkins added. “Meeting immediate physical needs is critical, but so is addressing mental and emotional health so people can regain stability and independence.”
To continue responding to this sustained and increasing demand — particularly as colder weather returns — the Mission is calling on the community for financial support. Monetary donations are especially vital because they allow the organization to respond quickly and efficiently to urgent needs, including meals, overnight shelter, counseling, and long-term life restoration services.
“We remain hopeful about the strength and resilience of our local economy,” said Hopkins. “But until that recovery reaches everyone, we must stand together to ensure no one in our community is left without help. Community support makes it possible for us to keep our doors open and expand services to meet the growing need right here in Casper.”
Community members who wish to support the Mission’s work can make financial contributions at: https://www.wyomission.org/donate