Under the warm glow of the Cody City Hall lights, a sense of urgency filled the air as city officials gathered to address pressing community issues. The highlight of the evening was the proclamation of September 2025 as Hunger Action Month, a significant initiative aimed at raising awareness about food insecurity affecting millions across the nation.

Mayor Leanne Ryder opened the discussion by emphasizing the stark reality faced by over 47 million Americans who struggle with hunger. In Wyoming alone, more than 90,000 individuals, including nearly 27,000 children, find it challenging to meet their basic nutritional needs. The mayor underscored the city’s commitment to collaborating with the Food Bank of Wyoming, part of the Feeding America network, to educate the public on the critical role food banks play in combating hunger.

The proclamation highlighted that over 13% of Park County residents rely on food assistance from the Food Bank of Wyoming, which distributed more than 10 million meals to over 55,000 families in the state last year. September, designated as Hunger Action Month, calls for community involvement through volunteering, donations, and spreading awareness about food insecurity.

Following the proclamation, the council moved on to the consent calendar, where procedural matters were discussed. A motion was made to amend the calendar, specifically addressing street closures for an upcoming event. The council members demonstrated their commitment to ensuring community events run smoothly while also prioritizing the pressing issue of hunger in their discussions.

As the meeting concluded, the city of Cody reaffirmed its dedication to tackling food insecurity, encouraging residents to engage in efforts that ensure everyone has access to the food they need to thrive. The evening served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support one another in the fight against hunger, fostering a stronger, more resilient community.