FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 11/17/25
Contact: Courtney Neubauer, courtney.neubauer@klamathtribes.org ; 541-576-4458
Klamath Tribes Commend Governor’s Rapid Action Addressing Food Insecurity During Federal Shutdown
CHILOQUIN, Ore.— The Klamath Tribes extend sincere gratitude to Governor Tina Kotek and her administration for their prompt intervention in addressing food insecurity affecting tribal communities during the federal government shutdown.
Many tribal families rely on federal programs such as SNAP, and the shutdown immediately jeopardized access to essential resources. The Klamath Tribes applaud Governor Kotek for allocating $1 million in emergency relief to Oregon’s Tribes during this crisis, as announced by her office on November 6, 2025. This decisive action sustains reliable food access despite federal disruption.
The Klamath Tribes also commend the Oregon Department of Human Services for efficiently distributing SNAP benefits and providing clear program updates to affected households.
Collaboration between state agencies and tribal leaders has been crucial in preventing greater hardship in our communities.
This also acknowledges the unique relationship between sovereign tribal nations and the United States government. The Klamath Tribes recognize this affirmation of Treaty and Trust responsibilities. This emergency relief serves as a vital lifeline for addressing urgent needs and protecting our elders, children, and families.
The Klamath Tribes remain committed to collaborating with state partners to safeguard health and well-being.
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Courtney Neubauer, Interim Public Relations Director
courtney.neubauer@klamathtribes.org 541.576.4458
William E. Ray Jr., Klamath Tribes Chairman
wray.council@klamathtribes.com (541) 783-2219
About The Klamath Tribes
The Klamath Tribes’ primary mission is to “protect, preserve and enhance the spiritual, cultural and physical values and resources of the Klamath, Modoc and Yahooskin Peoples by maintaining the customs of our ancestors.” The heart of Tribal life is centered in Chiloquin, Oregon, and includes 12 Departments, Health Clinic, Childcare Center, Tribal Court, goos oLgi gowa Center, Research Station, and three tribal enterprises. The Klamath Tribes’ 12 departments facilitate service delivery to multiple aspects of tribal life, including health and fitness, education, economic development, social services, cultural preservation, natural resource protection, and more.
About The Klamath Tribes Economic Development Committee
The KTEDC is elected by the Klamath Tribes General Council, which includes all eligible voters enrolled in Klamath, Modoc, and Yahooskin Band of Snake Indians. The committee is a semi autonomous arm of Tribal Government for the purpose of assisting the Tribes and its members in attaining self-sufficiency, to further economic and resource development of the Tribes, and to create independent sources of income and employment through the acquisition, establishment, and operation of Tribal business ventures and other income-producing activities
