Little Shell Tribe Food Security & Food Sovereignty

The Little Shell Tribe used this grant to establish a program that provides healthy food to members experiencing food insecurity and limited access to nutritious options, with the ultimate goal of fostering a healthier community. The tribe, which already had a storage facility and distribution center, used grant funds to hire a project coordinator to develop processes, procedures, and policies for the program, as well as to define a sustainability strategy. The coordinator collaborated with partners to arrange the regular acquisition, delivery, and distribution of healthy foods, including produce, dairy, and meat. The program currently serves 45 families and 70 participants, most of whom are over 60 years old and on a fixed income. Many individuals who were previously receiving SNAP benefits can now access more nutritious food through this program. By building relationships with local organizations, the program has facilitated better coordination and collaboration in delivering goods and services. It has expanded access to additional resources, including funding, expertise, and in-kind contributions. By establishing an ongoing dialogue and partnerships with citizens and organizations, the program has gained valuable insights into the specific needs and challenges of the community. The program is now fully funded by the USDA and is awaiting USDA approval for a refrigerated vehicle to distribute food safely.