FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 31, 2025
Contact: Courtney Neubauer, courtney.neubauer@klamathtribes.org; 541.576.4458
Download TC Resolution 2025-056 Declaration of Emergency Food Insecurity 10-31-25 .pdf
Download Press Release The Klamath Tribes Declare a Tribal Emergency .pdf
The Klamath Tribes Declare a Tribal Emergency
The federal government shutdown is anticipated to suspend SNAP benefits starting November 1, which could lead to a food crisis for Klamath Tribes citizens. The Klamath Tribes are dedicated to providing stability and support during this crisis. The Klamath Tribes are exercising their sovereignty by declaring a Tribal Emergency to mobilize funds and support for members during this crisis.
The Klamath Tribes will allocate additional funds to programs and departments to address urgent food insecurity and will form an Ad Hoc committee to respond to emerging needs. Citizens outside Klamath County can call 211 to find nearby food banks and resources.
Emergency Food Access
For assistance, contact Klamath Tribes Emergency Manager Lacey Jarrell at 541-783-2219, extension 252.
The Klamath Tribes have compiled a list of food pantries and warm meal options in greater Klamath County. This list will be updated as new resources become available.
Visit https://bit.ly/4ohAtRM to review available resources.
Families losing access to essential food resources should contact the Klamath Tribes Community Services Department Commodities Program to discuss eligibility for food boxes.
Visit https://klamathtribes.org/commodities-program/ or call Calvin Miller at (541) 883-2876
The Klamath Tribes will facilitate resource sharing in accordance with traditional teachings of reciprocity, mutual respect, and kinship. While the Tribes do not certify or guarantee the quality or quantity of food distributed, community members are encouraged to participate with these values in mind and use their own discretion. This project is a temporary measure to address immediate needs and is subject to change.
Items can be picked up at the Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC), 318 S. Chiloquin Blvd, Chiloquin, OR 97624, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
To donate non-perishable food items, please drop them off at the Klamath Tribal Administration, 501 Chiloquin Blvd, Chiloquin, OR 97624, or at ECDC.
Mental Health and Additional Supports
The Klamath Tribes recognize that this crisis may trigger historical trauma related to unmet federal promises and widespread hunger. To support mental health needs, services are available through Klamath Tribal Health & Family Services. These advocates can assess your needs and connect you to appropriate services, including transportation and food assistance. Contact Klamath Tribal Health & Family Services at 541-882-1487. For assistance, ask for Paulie Hawthorne at extension 415 or Mandy Roberson at extension 408.
The Klamath Tribes continue to advocate for the United States government to fulfill its obligations under the Treaty of 1864 and address long-term food security.
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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.
For further information, visit https://klamathtribes.org/.
