The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) supports the nutritional needs of American Indian families living on or near tribal lands. By providing access to nutritionally balanced food packages, FDPIR helps address food insecurity while respecting the dietary preferences and traditions of tribal communities. In areas where grocery stores are scarce, this program helps families access the resources needed to prepare healthy meals.
The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) is an alternative program to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
According to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service's December 2024 update, the program currently helps about 49,339 individuals monthly through a network of 110 Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs).
USDA purchases and ships foods to administering agencies, which then store and distribute the food packages, determine applicant eligibility, and provide nutrition education.
For the 2024 fiscal year, Congress allocated $170 million to support FDPIR operations. Funding splits into two categories: approximately $68.6 million supports the federal share of administrative costs. The remaining funds go directly toward food purchases for participating families.
The food packages provided through the FDPIR are completely free to eligible participants. Recipients do not have to pay for the food they receive as long as they meet the program's eligibility requirements and are approved for participation.
Families choose from more than 90 products monthly, and options expand regularly to include traditional and culturally significant foods.
Each month, eligible households receive a food package for which they can select from over 90 products, including:
The Food Distribution Program addresses seasonal needs. Fresh produce now includes seasonal items like cranberries and clementines, delivered through partnerships with the Department of Defense Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.
Since 2008, the program has funded special projects through nutrition education grants, though the format changed in 2023. The current system makes it easier for tribal organizations to request nutrition education funds, reduces paperwork, and offers more flexibility.
The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) oversees FDPIR operations, working hand-in-hand with tribal organizations and state agencies on:
Local agencies tailor distribution to meet each area. Some operate central warehouses where participants select their foods, while others deliver to remote areas or homebound families.
To be eligible for FDPIR, you need to be an:
FDPIR income standards are set by the federal government and are updated annually. You can see the latest income standards here.
The net monthly income limit for a household is calculated by adding:
This total tells you the maximum income a household can have each month to qualify for the program.
Households cannot receive FDPIR and SNAP benefits in the same month.
Contact the Indian Tribal Organization (ITO) that runs the program in your area. You can ask your tribal government or check with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for a list of participating tribal organizations.
Fill out the application form provided by your local FDPIR office. The form will ask for information about your household size, income, and resources.
You may need to provide documents like:
You may be asked to participate in an interview to verify your eligibility and discuss your household's needs.
After you submit your application and any necessary documents, the program staff will review it. If approved, you will be notified about how and when you can receive food assistance.
Approved participants typically pick up their food packages at a designated distribution site or have them delivered, depending on the tribal organization's policies.
Most households are required to reapply every 12 months. However, if the household includes a member who is elderly (60 or older) or has a disability, they might only need to recertify every 24 months.
FDPIR works with other federal nutrition programs:
While participants can't accept SNAP and FDPIR simultaneously, they can switch between programs monthly based on needs. Some families find FDPIR more practical in areas with limited grocery stores or when traditional foods hold special significance.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program gives extra aid during times of need. Local food banks coordinate with FDPIR distribution sites to maximize food aid availability.
