Tribe launches two-pronged plan on food insecurity with direct aid to local communities, through grants
Siletz, Ore., on November 1, 2025, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians declared a state of emergency to address food insecurity as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown. Tribal Members and children are affected by the loss or delay of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting in the month of November. After a recent court decision, the federal government stated they would issue SNAP recipients up to half of their typical benefits, and they will likely be delayed.
Declaring a state of emergency makes additional resources available and adds flexibility in program implementation. The tribe has allocated $200,000 in funds to assist Tribal Members in meeting the shortfall in SNAP benefits. To receive emergency funds, Tribal Members can apply in person at the Siletz Administration office or at one of the area offices (Portland, Salem, Eugene) through the 477-Self Sufficiency Program. The program will accept applications daily, between Nov. 5-12, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Applications will also be available on the CTSI website (member only section) with instructions on how to submit documents.
We ask that Tribal Members come prepared and submit all required documents at the time of application. This includes:
- Complete application listing household composition, address and birthdates
- SNAP benefit letter confirming eligibility and enrollment
- Release of information with the Oregon Department of Human Services, if needed
- Applications will be accepted from Nov. 5-12, 2025, or until funds are expended
“We know that reduced benefits caused by this government shutdown has created a lot of stress and uncertainty for our tribal families. With holidays around the corner, we want to ensure families have the resources they did prior to the shutdown,” CEO Kurtis Barker said.
This emergency assistance is ran through a temporary general welfare assistance program and is not taxable income. Recipients are responsible for evaluating the impact that receiving funds under this program will have on other local, state, and federal benefit programs. Program funds will be mailed to addresses on file with the Enrollment office on or before Nov. 14, 2025.
Charitable Contributions Fund:
In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown and instability in food programs such as SNAP, the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund (STCCF), in partnership with the Siletz Tribal Council, has authorized $80,000 in emergency funding for food banks and gleaners within the tribe’s 11-county service area.
This action, approved by Siletz Tribal Council, uses the remaining funds from the 2023 EPR Charitable Budget. Twenty (20) nonprofit food organizations will each receive $4,000 to help meet increased demand as families experience reduced food benefits and increased unmet needs.
The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians recognize the vital role these programs play in supporting vulnerable populations. This emergency funding ensures food resources remain available during this difficult time.
The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund (STCCF) is a program within the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, established in 1999 through a compact between the State of Oregon and CTSI. Within this agreement, 5% of all net revenues from Chinook Winds Casino Resort are dedicated to Charitable Grant requests. This funding can only be dispersed among non-profit organizations, Native American organizations and government entities.
For more information about the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, visit our website at www.ctsi.nsn.us.