Ō´yō´•p´ Food Pantry
Located in the Methodist Church Annex 108 2nd St. NW Browning, MT 5941
Ō’yō’·ṗ’ Food Pantry: Combating Food Insecurity on the Blackfeet Nation
The 2016-17 FAST Blackfeet Community Food Sovereignty and Food Security Assessment found that 69% of people on the Blackfeet Nation experienced food insecurity, compared to the national rate of 12.5%. In response, the Ō’yō’·ṗ’ Food Pantry plays a critical role in reducing food insecurity by offering weekly food boxes through two distributions, using a client-choice or “shopping” model that empowers individuals to select their own food items.
To further support the community, we provide a dedicated Elder Time Slot every Tuesday, ensuring our elders receive the care and nourishment they deserve. The pantry is overseen by Cindy Salway, our Pantry Manager, and supported by Sadee Littleplume, Assistant Pantry Manager, who work diligently to serve the Blackfeet Nation.
Ō’yō’·ṗ’ Food Pantry: Evolving to Meet Community Needs
Since its opening in September 2019, the Ō’yō’·ṗ’ Food Pantry has been a crucial resource, initially serving an average of 209 households per month. During the COVID-19 pandemic, demand surged by 500%, leading to the creation of six additional positions to meet the growing need and support other FAST programs. At its peak in 2021, the pantry provided food to an average of 1,045 households per month across all programs, feeding an average of 4.5 people per household per visit.
Despite the easing of COVID restrictions, participant numbers remain high, demonstrating the ongoing need for food security support within the Blackfeet Nation. FAST Blackfeet continues to provide this level of service, ensuring that our community is nourished and supported. Nation.
