SILETZ – The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians declared a state of emergency this week and allocated $200,000 to tribal members and $80,000 to food banks to address supply shortages in the wake of disruptions to federal assistance programs.
The ongoing government shutdown has disrupted Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. After a recent court decision, the federal government stated they would issue SNAP recipients up to half of their typical benefits, and they would likely be delayed. Oregon has the third highest percentage of SNAP benefits in the country. In Lincoln County alone 4,450 households rely on the program.
The tribe allocated $200,000 to assist tribal members.
“We know that reduced benefits caused by this government shutdown has created a lot of stress and uncertainty for our tribal families,” Siletz chief executive officer Kurtis Barker said in a statement. “With holidays around the corner, we want to ensure families have the resources they did prior to the shutdown.”
To receive emergency funds, tribal members can apply in person at the Siletz administration office or at one of the Portland, Salem or Eugene offices through the 477-Self Sufficiency Program. The program will accept applications daily until Nov. 12. Applications are also available on the tribe’s website. Funds will be mailed on or before Nov. 14.
The tribal council also approved using $80,000 in remaining funds from its 2023 Charitable Contributions Fund budget. The money was divided among 20 nonprofit food organizations in the tribe’s service area. In Lincoln County, those getting help were Agape Respite Center, Alsea Valley Gleaners, Coastal Range Food Bank, Alsea Food Bank, Newport Food Pantry, North Lincoln Eagles and the Siletz Community Food Pantry.
