The Salamatof Native Association, Inc. (SNAI) was awarded a $241,250 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA NIFA) Community Food Projects Competitive Grant Program (CFDA 10.225). The grant will fund the expansion of SNAI's Salamatof Traditional Foods Program to increase access to local, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods for community members in the Kenai Peninsula region of Alaska who face food insecurity.
Key products and services to be delivered through the grant include: purchasing a vehicle and trailer to support food harvesting, processing, and distribution; installing a high-tunnel greenhouse to extend the short growing season and provide fresh produce; developing new partnerships and methods to harvest, process, package, and distribute locally-sourced foods; and enhancing the local food system workforce through internships and volunteer opportunities. The project aims to address food access challenges in rural Alaska communities caused by high transportation costs and barriers to traditional food sources.