Fair to Fork helps Wyo. 4-H and FFA members tackle hunger

Think a hog can’t change the world? Think again. Across Wyoming, young agriculturalists are making a difference in the fight against food insecurity through the Fair to Fork program.

Launched in 2023 by First Lady Jennie Gordon as part of the Wyoming Hunger Initiative, the program partners with Wyoming 4-H and FFA to provide high-quality protein to local food pantries while giving youth firsthand experience in the ranch-to-table process.

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted,” said First Lady Gordon, highlighting the importance of youth involvement. “We love seeing young people join the fight against food insecurity in Wyoming.”

Sources of high-quality protein are notoriously expensive and difficult to procure for local anti-hunger organizations. In partnership with University of Wyoming Extension 4-H and FFA, Fair to Fork works to purchase secondary hogs through a lottery selection, from every county in Wyoming.

Wyoming Hunger Initiative will purchase the pig for $750, ensure a U.S. Department of Agriuclture or state-inspected facility processes the meat, and then coordinate with the 4-H or FFA member to donate it to a local anti-hunger organization in the county of origin.

In its inaugural year, 14 youth from 14 Wyoming counties took part, resulting in 2,255 pounds of pork being distributed to 18 food pantries across the state. The program’s success led to an expansion in 2024, with 21 youth from 21 counties participating.

“Fair to Fork participants were honored during the swine show at the Wyoming State Fair this week due to their dedication to a program that provides high-quality protein to local anti-hunger organizations across Wyoming,” Gordon shared. “These secondary pigs were purchased at market value, processed, and will be distributed to the 4-H or FFA member’s choice of food pantry in their local community.”

Protein is one of the most expensive and difficult-to-acquire food items for food pantries, making programs like Fair to Fork a crucial resource. By engaging youth in the agricultural supply chain and emphasizing the importance of giving back, the initiative strengthens Wyoming communities.

Each year, participants are recognized at the Wyoming State Fair, receiving a plaque and an invitation to ride in the fair parade alongside Governor Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon.

The program not only supports hunger relief but also fosters leadership, responsibility, and community service among Wyoming’s next generation of agriculturalists.

Youth interested in participating can enter the lottery through their local University of Wyoming Extension office or FFA chapter. As Fair to Fork continues to grow, it serves as a reminder that agriculture has the power to change lives — one hog at a time.