Qawalangin Tribe of Unalaska LFPA Plus Executive Summary

The Qawalangin Tribe of Unalaska (QTU), a federally recognized Sovereign Nation located in Alaska’s Aleutian West Census Area in Unalaska, will support Food Sovereignty through the “Unalaska Food Bank Aleutian Pribilof Islands Food Security Initiative” by addressing food insecurity for more 350 socially disadvantaged households (1400+ individuals) in areas that represent Unangan populations who reside in areas of high cost of living indexes, with the most challenging food security issues, and address Alaskan Tribes’ unique challenge of serving displaced members. Additionally, the Tribe, consistent with his Wellness initiatives, will use this proposal’s funding to also provide heart-healthy unprocessed or minimally processed foods, milk, and minimally processed juices to the Unalaska Senior Center, operated by the Tribe’s designated housing authority to assist in defraying the rising costs of food for our most vulnerable community collaborators/members. The Tribe will identify and use local Alaska-based food producers and suppliers, focusing on local farmers and butchers, as well as independent local businesses for its food distribution efforts. Whenever possible, it will use Alaska Native owned businesses. Doing this will provide post-pandemic economic stability for smaller, non-chain businesses. Additionally, consistent with the Tribe’s mission, it will promote Food Sovereignty and Cultural Preservation by purchasing traditional foods from indigenous hunters and gathers.