A $15,000 grant may not be enough to help all of Natrona County's homeless students and families, but the funds are nonetheless needed.

"There's always the need for money," said Greta Hinderliter. "It's basically filling in gaps that are there. Families need to kind of feel some support."

Hinderliter, known for work with homeless students, applied for the $15,000 through the Tonkin Foundation. The foundation's purpose is to support activities benefitting Wyoming's youth, including aiding local children handicapped by illness, injury or poverty.

It was the second time Hinderliter applied and was awarded funds from the foundation.

"I'm really grateful to them," Hinderliter said.

At any time, Hinderliter said she's working with upwards of 200 families and students - they need a home, food, clothes. The number of families coming to her has remained steady over the past three years, Hinderliter said.

The upcoming year looks no different, she added. Close to 50 families have already contacted Hinderliter, seeking her help.

"I'll have a full case load," Hinderliter said.

Hinderliter said the grant is used for purchasing school supplies, new clothes and other items for students and their families. She also provides grocery cards when families can't make ends meet, as well as buying summer movie and swim passes.

The funds also help students get involved with school activities they may not be able to afford.

"If a kid wants to play trumpet, and mom doesn't have the money, I'll rent it for the entire year," Hinderliter said.

In addition, Hinderliter worked closely with the Natrona County Public Library to provide library cards to homeless students. The library usually requires an address to have a library card, an obvious barrier for homeless students.

Some of the Tonkin money was set aside to replace library books that aren't returned by students or their families, Hinderliter said, in exchange for signing them up for cards.

"I want those children to have all these opportunities," Hinderliter said. "I don't want there to be any barriers for those kids."

Reach education reporter Jasa Santos at (307) 266-0593 or at Jasa.Santos@trib.com