Applications are open for the Tribal Elder Community Food Box Program. The state budget provides an appropriation of $1.5 million annually for the Tribal Elder Community Food Box Program.
“Far too many communities in our state struggle with food insecurity, but especially aging and older Tribal adults,” says Gov. Tony Evers. “This grant program will help increase access to nutritious foods in Tribal communities and expand Indigenous producers’ capacity to supply culturally relevant food.”
The program provides grants to nonprofit food assistance organizations to purchase and distribute food to tribal elders. In addition, the grants support the growth and operations of food producers and processors from tribal nations in the Upper Midwest.
A total of $1.5 million is available through a competitive review process. There is no minimum request amount, and applicants may apply for up to $1.5 million. Applicants don’t have to match the amount. Projects can begin work in June 2024. Apply by 5 p.m. on March 29.
Projects must collaborate with and partner on food security efforts with tribal nations in Wisconsin. Grant funds must support tribal members and serve multiple nations within the state. Projects must distribute food in Wisconsin at no cost. A minimum of 90 percent of the budget must be spent on food procurement, and a maximum of 10 percent of the budget may be spent on other eligible expenses to implement or evaluate the project.
See grant information and application materials: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/AgDevelopment/TribalElderCommunityFoodBoxProgram.aspx