
MUCKLESHOOT EVENTS CENTER — The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe recently hosted a United States Department of Agriculture conference on the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). The event drew Tribal representatives from all over the U.S.
Councilman Donny Stevenson represented the Tribe and presented the conference agenda to kick off the event aimed at rebuilding trust and their relationships with Tribes. The FDPIR provides food to apporximately 53,000 income-eligible households on Tribal reservations and Native Americanhouseholds in approved areas near reservations. The program provides American-grown and produced foods and nutrition education that help reduce food insecurity and support nutritious diets.
Currently, the program is experiencing food delivery delays, which are impacting inventory levels at participating locations. The agency is trying to address the delays with additional funding to allow the program to purchase foods from other suppliers; expanding other federal nutrition programs; activating emergency food assistance programs; and leveraging a local food purchasing agreement.
When Laura Rudert talks about leadership, she does not start with titles or credentials. She starts with people. With community. With responsibility to those who come next.
On Jan 10, our community gathered for the Winter Powwow after the event was postponed earlier in the season due to flooding. Coming together again made the day especially meaningful.
The Native American 40 Under 40 award honors Indigenous leaders under the age of 40 from across the United States who are carrying forward the work of their people through leadership, service and commitment to community.

On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe opened the Muckleshoot Athletic Center, marking a major investment in training, skill development and long-term athletic opportunity for Muckleshoot people and future generations.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a monthly Tribal publication. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as announcements, birth news, birthday shoutouts, community highlights, and more. We want to hear from you!