The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced plans to purchase Meat and Fish Products for distribution to for the National School Lunch Program and other federal food nutrition assistance programs. Offers will be solicited in the following forms:

The Kalispel Tribe Food Security Enhancement Project aims to increase access to healthy, fresh protein options through the monthly distribution of meat boxes to approximately 150 Tribal families. The Kalispel Tribal Community is one that is largely rural and low income, factors that produce significant barriers to food access and create a population that is particularly vulnerable to food insecurity.

Igiugig Village is located off the road system, and like in many other rural Alaska communities, food security is a concern due to the high cost of living. Subsistence foods are key to food security and are intrinsic to the Tribe’s cultural identity. In recent years, access to subsistence foods has been hindered by the high gas prices, which limit people’s ability to travel to subsistence areas.

The Hoopa Valley Tribe’s Niwhong-xw K’iwiyul project will improve elder and community members’ equitable access to fresh, locally produced foods while providing tribal and other socially disadvantaged producers a reliable market and supporting local supply chain resiliency. Strengthening Hoopa’s food system and restoring the Tribe’s food sovereignty will improve individual, community and ecological health and sustainability.

Holy Cross Tribe (HCT) is a federally recognized sovereign Tribal government that works tirelessly to serve its Tribal members and other local residents of Holy Cross, a remote Alaskan community located in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta along the Yukon River. Holy Cross is located off the road system and is only accessible by boat, plane, and snowmachine. HCT’s Community Food Program is aimed at reducing food insecurity by providing fresh produce and meat boxes on a monthly basis to support the year-round nutritional needs of the community.

The Louden Tribe (aka Galena Village, or “The Tribe”) intends to pursue a Cooperative Agreement with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to receive assistance for a Local Food Purchase Program in Galena, AK. 

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.