The Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe (FPST) has endeavored to create a food security system that will ensure all its members have access to fresh, healthy foods. At the center of the system is the Local Food Purchase Assistance PLUS program. Disadvantaged farmers will represent two thirds of the targeted producers. FPST’s understanding of nutrition and cultural requirements will guide the procurement and distribution processes, driving optimal engagement of its target populations.
While the overarching goal of the initiative is to provide nutrition assistance to anyone within FPST’s service area, there are three groups of people who will be targeted because of their disproportionate needs: multi-generational families, those living at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level and the elderly. FPST’s Emergency Management department has identified 100 families (350 people) and 250 individuals, including 110 seniors, for direct assistance. Between families, seniors and those living near the Federal Poverty level, 600 individuals are within the program’s target population, a number that represents nearly half of the Tribe.
Program activities will include purchasing foods from local suppliers (6 of 9 disadvantaged), receiving shipments at the Tribal Food Pantry, and distributing fresh, wholesome foods to food insecure members of the FPST community. Evaluation of the program will include USDA progress, financial reporting, and surveys.
FPST’s proposed LFPA program will bring self-directed food security to its population while providing economic and marketing support to farmers in northern Nevada.