Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley and a group of senators are calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to address the backlog of food distribution to Native American tribes. This issue has become more urgent due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated food insecurity in tribal communities.
Senator Merkley and his colleagues sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue requesting immediate action to ensure that food supplies reach Native American tribes in a timely manner. They highlighted the importance of fulfilling the government’s trust and treaty obligations to provide food assistance to these communities.
The senators expressed concern about the delays in distributing food through the USDA’s Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), which has left many tribal members without access to essential groceries. They called on the agency to improve communication with tribes, streamline the distribution process, and address any logistical challenges that may be hindering the delivery of food.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the existing inequalities faced by Native American communities, who already experience higher rates of food insecurity and poverty compared to the general population. The senators emphasized the need for the USDA to prioritize the needs of these communities and ensure that they receive the necessary food assistance during this challenging time.
Senator Merkley and his colleagues are committed to working with the USDA to address the backlog of food distribution to Native American tribes and support their efforts to alleviate food insecurity in these vulnerable communities. They are calling for swift action to ensure that food reaches those in need and that the government fulfills its obligations to Native American tribes.
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