Indigenous Food Sovereignty Programs Help Meet Demand During the Federal Shutdown

The uncertainty created by a partial loss of SNAP benefits due to the federal shutdown has brought the need for healthy food access into sharper focus for Twin Cities Native communities.

The Trump administration announced Monday that it will partially fund SNAP after two judges ruled last week that the administration is required to keep the program funded.

Last year, the Division of Indian Work saw more than 8,000 visits to its food shelf.

Shanah Regguinti is the director of programs for the multi-service nonprofit. He supervises the staff at the food shelf. He says the number of people seeking food support from the organization has increased over the past six months.

“There’s insecurity about the future. Anytime there’s nervousness, we see a huge uptick. So, every day it’s been really busy here for several months now.”

Regguinti motions to a commercial refrigerator. Behind the sliding glass doors are rows of blueberries, strawberries, pineapples and salad greens ready to be given to those seeking food support.