LCCC’s FNBO Food Pantry expanding support for students in need

Laramie County Community College student Jesus Serna remembers the relief he felt each time he walked into the FNBO Food Pantry on the college’s Cheyenne campus. 

As a full-time student and parent, affording groceries was a constant concern. 

“The pantry helped us stretch our budget while making sure my family had fresh and nutritious meals,” Jesus said. “It wasn’t just about the food — it gave us peace of mind and allowed me to focus on school.”

The FNBO Food Pantry at LCCC not only provides essential food and hygiene items but also strives to educate students about nutrition and sustainable eating habits. By reducing food insecurity, the pantry empowers students to focus on their education without the burden of hunger.

The pantry, located in the Crossroads Building, provides LCCC students with free food, personal hygiene products and school supplies. With the rising cost of living and tuition, demand for the pantry’s services has increased significantly. As of February 2025, student visits to the pantry have increased by 56% compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing need for food assistance.

“Food insecurity is different for everyone but just as important,” said Yulia Lenz, LCCC Student Engagement specialist. “When the need for a snack becomes the need for a meal, the conversation changes, and that shouldn't say anything about the individual but more about societal circumstances. When an individual chooses to become a student, their priority should be education, so it's natural to have personal funds reflect that, leaving fewer resources for food.”

A collaboration between LCCC’s pantry and the Food Bank of Wyoming is now providing additional resources to stock the pantry and allowing students to access a broader range of nutritious food options. In late 2024, the pantry received $600 in funding from FBW, which is being used to provide grocery gift cards and restock essential pantry supplies. LCCC is also strengthening community partnerships through the Wyoming Hunger Initiative and is working with Sprouts to incorporate healthier food choices.

Through its partnership with the Food Bank of Wyoming, the pantry now benefits from “Food from the Field,” a program that brings in game-meat donations, ensuring students have access to high-protein meal options. Additionally, the partnership has provided multiple grant opportunities, Yulia said.

“Our partnership also provides an opportunity to buy in bulk via wholesale pricing, allowing our funds to go further,” Yulia said. 

Students visiting the FNBO Food Pantry are greeted by a volunteer who helps guide them through the process. If it’s their first time, the volunteer explains that they can visit up to twice per week and select up to 10 items, including two freezer items, along with two personal hygiene products and unlimited school supplies. After presenting their LCCC student ID, which tracks attendance, they receive a bag and are welcome to shop for the items they need.

The pantry relies on donations from the campus community, local businesses and individuals. Essential items such as canned goods, pasta, peanut butter, fresh produce and frozen meats are always in high demand. Monetary contributions help stock perishable items, and an Amazon Wish List allows donors to send supplies directly to the pantry. 

“Every donation — whether it’s a can of soup or a financial gift — makes a real difference in a student’s life,” Yulia said.

Students at LCCC looking to fulfill service-learning hours can volunteer at the pantry, helping with stocking, organizing, and assisting fellow students. College faculty and staff are also encouraged to volunteer. 

In addition to making plans for finding more space to meet the growing needs, future aspirations for the pantry’s supporters include securing a grant for a larger refrigerator, which will help reduce food waste and expand the availability of perishable items for students in need.

LCCC’s FNBO Food Pantry is more than just a place to pick up food — it’s a lifeline for students striving to build a better future. With the support of Food Bank of Wyoming and other community partners, the pantry continues to expand its reach and impact. 

“We all need to eat, and the pantry is here to help,” Yulia said. “It’s a welcoming, non-judgmental space where our volunteers genuinely want to support students. Food insecurity isn’t forever, so we encourage students to take advantage of the resources available while they can.”

To learn more about the FNBO Food Pantry, donate or get involved, contact Ashley Garhart at agarhart@lccc.wy.edu or 307.778.1119 or Yulia Lenz at ylenz@lccc.wy.edu or 307.778.1182. You can also visit the pantry’s website here.