Blog
Critical Need to Increase Food Security in Rural Alaska
A key part of our work to end hunger, improve nutrition, increase physical activity, and reduce diet-related diseases is focusing on historically under-served areas, like rural and Tribal communities. Alaska, for instance, faces unique challenges.
09/20/2023
Blog
Reflecting on and Improving on Tribal Programs at FNS
For far too long, decisions about FDPIR were made for tribes rather than with tribes or even by tribes. But USDA is committed to turning that tide and making the future of FDPIR one marked by listening, understanding and collaboration.
09/19/2023
Blog
FNCS Supports Food Sovereignty of Tribal Nations
Stacy Dean, FNCS Deputy Under Secretary , was inspired by how three tribes - Spirit Lake Sioux Tribe, Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, and Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe - are dreaming big in terms of food sovereignty through FDIPR and SNAP.
08/01/2023
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FNS Strengthens Commitment to Nutrition Security and Equity, Takes Action to Address Supply Chain and Inflation
USDA FNS today recognized significant progress made across the nation’s nutrition assistance programs and broader nutrition security efforts during the Biden-Harris second year in office. As President Biden prepares for the 2023 State of the Union address, he will reflect on last year’s progress and forge ahead in the fight against hunger and increase access to nutritious foods for all Americans by supporting vital FNS programs that assist families in navigating the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, such as high food costs and supply shortages.
02/06/2023
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FNS Awards $50 Million for Improving Seniors’ Access to Locally Grown Foods, Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience
FNS today announced $50 million in grants to 47 states and tribes to modernize and expand the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program at farmers markets, roadside stands and community supported agriculture programs. These grants will allow states to reach more eligible seniors by funding the $50 maximum benefit for up to 250,000 more eligible seniors, while expanding geographic areas served and transitioning to online training and electronic benefits transfer in some states.
01/31/2023
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At the White House Tribal Nations Summit, USDA Announces Continued Commitment to Indian Country
One year after the reinstatement of the White House Tribal Nations Summit, USDA is sharing its actions to better serve tribal governments, citizens, and organizations and honor our nation’s trust and treaty responsibility. The Biden-Harris Administration and USDA are taking steps to empower tribal self-determination, promote equity and remove barriers to services and programs, and incorporate Indigenous perspectives.
11/30/2022
Blog
Tribal Food Sovereignty a Focus of NAFDPIR Conference
Since 1977, tribes and intertribal organizations have been eligible to receive food packages from the USDA. Historically, products in the food packages were not traditional to tribes participating in the program. However, in recent years and in consultation with tribes, more traditional products have been incorporated into food packages.
11/14/2022
Subscriber Updates
Advancing Tribal Sovereignty through Self-Determination Projects for FDPIR
USDA FNS invites tribes to apply for a second round of FDPIR Self-Determination Demonstration Projects. Through these projects, tribes administering the FDPIR can enter into self-determination contracts with USDA to directly purchase food for the FDPIR food packages distributed to their tribe.
10/17/2022
Blog
FNS Honors Traditions and Supports the Sovereignty of Tribal Nations
Tribal nations across what we now consider the Great Plains relied for millennia on their buffalo relatives for food, medicine, clothing, tools, and shelter. Yet today it is hard to find buffalo meat on school meal trays in the very areas where they once sustained Native communities. FNS is working with tribal partners to figure out why and to remove the barriers we can.
08/18/2022
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USDA Announces New Resource Guides for Tribal Governments, Citizens, and Organizations
The USDA Office of Tribal Relations has released the newest editions of the USDA Resource Guide for American Indians and Alaska Natives 2022 and the USDA Native Youth Resource Guide 2022. Each of these guides provides valuable information to Indian Country and can serve as a roadmap of USDA resources and services available to tribal governments, citizens, and organizations.
08/16/2022
Blog
Your Market is Only a Few Clicks Away: Navigating USDA’s Local Food Directories
USDA’s Local Food Directories make it easy for customers to find fresh local foods through four local outlets. Recent updates have made the directories easier to use on the go, on your phone or computer. We’ve also launched a new directory for agritourism. As the platform continues to grow, here are a few tips on how to navigate this resource.
08/15/2022
Blog
Discovering Trends in the 2019 National Farmers Market Managers Survey
The 2019 National Farmers Market Survey conducted by the USDA’s AMS and the NASS collected data regarding the market practices of managers in 2019 from 10,000 farmers markets. Using trends and statistics found from these efforts, AMS and Wheaton College created five research briefs highlighting results from this survey and sharing insights into the trajectory for farmers markets into the future.
08/15/2022
Page updated: February 09, 2021