On Thursday, March 19, the Foundation for the Episcopal Diocese of Wyoming committed $1 Million Dollars ($1,000,000) in support of relief for those negatively impacted by the COVID-19 global pandemic. Just fourteen days later, on April 1, 2020, the Diocese of Wyoming mailed $460,000 of that grant to the 46 Episcopal Churches around the State of Wyoming.

“Each Episcopal parish in Wyoming was awarded a grant of $10,000, regardless of size of community or church,” according to the Right Reverend John Smylie, Bishop of the Diocese of Wyoming. In a letter to parishes he said, “Our hope is that you will dream of ways you can make a love-spreading difference in the lives of those negatively impacted by this crisis. We are asking that you distribute these dollars within 60 days to meet the most pressing needs you currently discern.”

General grant guidelines ask that funds be prioritized for community, family or individual needs around four broad categories: Childcare, Vulnerable Adults, Food Insecurity, or to provide assistance other than food (rent/mortgages, utilities/telephone/internet, medications, personal hygiene items, veterinary costs, vehicle/gas costs, etc.). Grant funds are NOT for church operating or capital expenditures. “Love your neighbor means going outside of the parish to serve those in need,” Press Stephens, Executive Director for the Foundation emphasized. “Individual communities across Wyoming have varying needs, and Episcopal churches have experience in identifying and addressing the most pressing of those needs.”

The Reverend Jimmy Bartz, Board Member and Rector of St. John’s in Jackson said, “It’s our hope that others in the State of Wyoming will rise to the challenge and donate to this cause.” Those wishing to add to this support effort may make a gift to the Episcopal Foundation for the Diocese of Wyoming designated for Covid-19 Relief. As needs evolve in the coming weeks and months, the remaining $540,000 of the initial grant, as well as any additional contributions to the fund will be allocated.

For more information, contact Press Stephens, Executive Director of The Foundation for The Episcopal Diocese of Wyoming – press@wyomingdiocese.org