Pictured is a selection of foods distributed by the USDA Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
On Wednesday, February 19, 2014, the California Valley Miwok Tribe held its monthly USDA Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).
FDPIR provides USDA Foods to low-income households living on Indian reservations, and to American Indian households residing in approved areas near reservations or in Oklahoma. Many households participate in FDPIR as an alternative to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), because they do not have easy access to SNAP officer or authorized food stores.
What are the eligibility requirements for FDPIR? Low-income American Indian and non-Indian households that reside on a reservation and households living in Oklahoma that contain at least one person who is a member of a Federally-recognized tribe, are eligible to participate in FDPIR. Household are certified on income and resource standards set by the Federal government, and must be re-certified at least every 12 months. Elderly and disabled households may be certified for up to 24 months.”
What foods are available through FDPIR? Each month, participating households receive a food package to help them maintain a nutritionally balanced diet. Participants may select from over 70 products including: frozen ground beef, beef roast, chicken, canned meats, poultry and fish – canned fruits, vegetables, beans, soups, and spaghetti sauce – pastas, cereals, rice, and other grains – cheese, egg mix, lowfat ultra high temperature milk, nonfat dry milk, and evaporated milk – flour, cornmeal, bakery mix, and crackers – dried beans and dehydrated potatoes – juices and dried fruit – peanuts and peanut butter.
How to Apply. You may contact the California Valley Miwok Tribe at 209.931.4567 for a USDA FDPIR application, or contact your SDA/Indian Tribal Organization (ITO), or the Food and Nutrition Service Regional Office in your area for further assistance.
The CVMT Tribal Council sincerely thanks the Tule River Reservation (USDA Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations), Mr. Richard McDarment, USDA FDIR Director, Mrs. Patricia Salas, USDA FDIR Intake Manager, Mr. Jesus Salas, USDA FDIR Staff, and Mr. Ronald Buckman, USDA FDIR Staff & driver.
