PROGRAM BACKGROUND
This program by NDC aims to meet the demonstrated economic need of the San Carlos Apache Tribe by supporting new and ongoing programs in rural food and agricultural business development. Proposed activities include constructing a community food store, establishing a farmers’ market, developing community gardens with food processing/storage, and providing education, outreach, technical assistance, and job/career training.
Beyond business development, the program will strengthen regional public health measures by encouraging the adoption of healthy lifestyles and traditional Apache diets. The program activities will expand the ongoing efforts of the project team to enhance the economic resilience and quality of life of the Native American communities in rural Arizona.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
The program objectives are:
Obj. #1: Increase community access to fresh and wholesome food on San Carlos Apache Reservation by building and establishing a community food store and associated infrastructure as part of the Nalwoodi Regional Food Hub.
Obj. #2: Promote local food production and create new markets for small and emerging food businesses by creating and operating a farmers market on the reservation, bringing more returns to local food producers.
Obj. #3: Teach and demonstrate sustainable farming techniques by developing community gardens with food processing and storage.
Obj. #4: Create/save jobs and business opportunities and stimulate the development of small and emerging Native American food businesses in historically underserved San Carlos Apache communities by providing job/career training and business/technical assistance.
Obj. #5: Build strong community and encourage the adoption of healthy eating and lifestyle through public education and community outreach.
Obj. #6: Preserve Apache identity, tradition, and culture through the promotion of traditional foods production and sustainable farming.