Thinking inside and outside the box: local and national considerations of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)

Abstract

The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) provides a monthly box of U.S. Department of Agriculture foods to low-income, rural Native Americans and is a vital component of food security for recipient households. While the origin of government food annuities dates back hundreds of years to treaties between tribes, pueblos, and nations and the United States Government, FDPIR in its current form and function is 40 years old. The FDPIR food package has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years over the quality, nutritional value, and cultural appropriateness of foods included. Using data collected from three Tribes in the Klamath River Basin as well as national institutions that govern FDPIR, we investigate opportunities and challenges of FDPIR to achieve food security for its clientele, and the extent to which integration of traditional foods can enhance Native American food security, food sovereignty and wellbeing. We conclude with a set of policy recommendations on how to improve Native American food security and food sovereignty outcomes for FDPIR clients.