Expanding Health Equity: The Food Depot’s Mission to Serve Tribal Communities in Northern New Mexico
The Food Depot
The Food Depot, in partnership with the Con Alma Health Foundation, has expanded its services to Pueblo communities in Northern New Mexico, delivering culturally relevant food and strengthening community bonds. This collaboration addresses immediate nutrition needs while expanding long-term health equity in these areas.
In Northern New Mexico, where diverse communities span vast landscapes, The Food Depot serves as a lifeline for families in need of nutritious food. This Santa Fe-based food bank operates in nine counties, collaborating with over 80 partner agencies to combat hunger. The Food Depot provides millions of pounds of food annually, with a special focus on rural and underserved areas where access to fresh, nutritious food is limited.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Hunger remains a critical issue in Northern New Mexico, where 1 in 7 people and 1 in 5 children face food insecurity. The Food Depot tackles this issue by not only providing immediate food assistance but also working toward long-term solutions to end hunger. Through partnerships with local pantries, meal programs, and shelters, The Food Depot reaches communities that otherwise lack access to healthy food options.
The organization’s commitment extends beyond typical food bank services. Recognizing the unique needs of the indigenous populations they serve, The Food Depot offers culturally appropriate food items, such as traditional indigenous ingredients, to promote healthier diets. “Building strong community relationships is vital. By fostering trust and ensuring culturally appropriate solutions, we’re committed to bringing fresh, healthy foods to every corner of the community,” says Program Coordinator Mary Ocampo.
Expanding Services to Tribal Communities
A key focus of The Food Depot’s recent efforts has been expanding services to tribal communities in Northern New Mexico, including five of the eight northern Pueblos and the Jicarilla Apache Nation. The pandemic highlighted the urgent need for better food access in these areas, many of which are classified as food deserts. According to Communications Manager Amanda Bregel, “Addressing food insecurity in native communities requires systematic change and a focus on long-term health.”
The Food Depot has expanded its services by incorporating community feedback and adapting to each community’s unique preferences. “Culturally appropriate service starts with respect and listening,” adds Bregel. By focusing on community engagement and health challenges like higher diabetes rates, The Food Depot ensures that its food distributions support the continued well-being of these communities.
The Role of Con Alma Health Foundation
A grant from the Con Alma Health Foundation has been pivotal in supporting The Food Depot’s expansion to Norhern New Mexico’s tribal communities. This funding allowed the organization to increase the availability of culturally relevant foods and improve community engagement. Through collaboration with tribal leaders and local organizations, The Food Depot tailored its services to meet each community’s needs and traditions.
This effort resulted in the distribution of approximately 100,000 pounds of food, equating to 81,870 meals. Additionally, the grant helped foster leadership initiatives within tribal communities, empowering local members to take an active role in service delivery and food distribution. As Bregel notes, “Partnering with Con Alma aligns with our values at The Food Depot. Together, we’re fostering long-term health and creating lasting change.”
A Holistic Approach to Food Security
The Food Depot’s mission goes beyond food distribution, addressing the root causes of hunger through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Their strategic plan focuses on expanding direct services, coordinating resources, and advocating for systemic changes to break the cycle of food insecurity. This holistic approach ensures that people are not only fed but also empowered with tools for long-term stability.
The Food Depot is also a key participant in the CONNECT network, which offers essential services like SNAP enrollment, food distribution, and diaper assistance, while partnering with other organizations to address a wide range of needs.
Ongoing Commitment
As The Food Depot continues its work in Northern New Mexico, it remains committed to expanding its services and partnerships to better serve vulnerable communities. The challenges ahead are significant, but with support from the Con Alma Health Foundation and a growing network of local organizations, The Food Depot is poised to make a lasting impact.
This effort demonstrates how community-driven solutions, strategic partnerships, and culturally sensitive approaches can create meaningful and lasting change in the fight against hunger. The Food Depot’s work is a vital resource for improving the health and well-being of Northern New Mexico’s most vulnerable residents.
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“Partnering with Con Alma aligns with our values at The Food Depot. Together, we’re fostering long-term health and creating lasting change.”
The Food Depot Communications Manager Amanda Bregel
