How to Make Blessing Bags in Wyoming: Safe Food, Water and Cold Weather Tips

Pick sealed foods that don't need a fridge. FDA says never to buy or use a can that looks swollen or has a bulge, a can dented along the seams, a can that is leaking, or a can with rust along the seams. Skip any sealed package that is torn or coming apart at the seams.

Official page: fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/surplus-salvaged-and-donated-foods

Wyoming gets very cold. CDC suggests a hat, mittens or gloves, a scarf and loose layers, and says to remove wet clothing. Shivering, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech or drowsiness are warning signs of hypothermia. Add hand warmers if you can.

Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html

Water matters most. CDC says to drink more water than usual and not wait until you're thirsty. Add a note about cooling places like public libraries. Muscle cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care right away.

Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html

Write a small card that says: Wyoming 211, dial 211 or text your zip code to 898211. Add 988 for crisis support. In Casper, you can add Wyoming Rescue Mission at 230 N Park Street, 307 265 3002, and in Cheyenne, COMEA at 307 632 3174.

Official page: health.wyo.gov/publichealth/prevention/wivpp/suicide-prevention/other-helplines

Wyoming Rescue Mission lists hygiene needs like shampoo, toilet paper, new underwear, towels and shower shoes, and winter items like hand warmers, gloves, scarves and hats. Donations can be dropped off at Park Street Center in Casper. Call 307 265 3002 first.

Official page: wyomission.org/needslist