Sheridan County, KS Welcomes First MakeMyMove Resident

By Kerissa Payne, Sheridan County Economic Development Program Officer

Hoxie, Kansas — May 9, 2025 —Sheridan County is proud to announce the arrival of its first participant through the MakeMyMove program, a state-supported initiative designed to encourage population growth in rural Kansas. This milestone marks an exciting step forward for the county’s economic development and community revitalization efforts.

Bennett Cave, who recently relocated from Missouri, is now a proud resident of Sheridan County and will be working at Equity Bank in Hoxie. Through the MakeMyMove program, Cave received a $5,000 relocation bonus simply for choosing to live and work in Western Kansas.

The MakeMyMove program offers financial incentives to remote workers and new hires who relocate to eligible rural communities across Kansas. Whether individuals are seeking a fresh start or returning home to be near family, this program helps remove financial barriers to making that move a reality.

“Sheridan County has so much to offer — a welcoming community, a strong work ethic, and a high quality of life,” said Kerissa Payne, Economic Development Program Officer for the Sheridan County Community Foundation. “Programs like MakeMyMove make it easier for individuals to take the leap and join our community.”

Residents with family members considering moving to Western Kansas — either for the first time or to return home — are encouraged to reach out. To learn more about the program or how to apply, contact Payne at 785-657-7679 or programs@growsheridancounty.org.

To celebrate Cave’s arrival, the community is putting together a welcome bag filled with local treats, handmade goods, and thoughtful items. Community members who would like to contribute can contact Payne at the Foundation and sign up on the website. The welcome bag will be delivered on Monday, May 19.

Sheridan County remains committed to welcoming new residents and supporting programs that invest in the future of rural Kansas.

Sheridan County Economic Development efforts are carried out under the umbrella of the Sheridan County Community Foundation (SCCF). Kerissa Payne serves as the Economic Development Program Officer, working to strengthen local businesses, enhance the economy, improve quality of life, and support community progress for all who live and work in Sheridan County, Kansas. To learn more, visit www.sheridancountyks.gov/ecodevo.