The Tribal Food Distribution Program

is dedicated to distributing nutritious foods to eligible households living within the four county areas of the Qualla Indian Boundary (lands in Jackson, Swain, Cherokee and Graham counties) and fall within USDA regulations. Service through the Food Distribution Program allows participants to select food items to help meet their nutritional needs. USDA has developed a well-balanced food package for each participating household member. Dry goods, canned fruits, vegetables, meats and a choice of different types of fresh produce and frozen meets are available in the food package. The food packages are based on the size of the family and are to supplement the families’ food needs for the month.

In-person interviews are required for all applicants. Please download the EBCI Tribal Food Distribution Application to learn what information is required and what to bring with you when you come in for your interview. EBCI per capita is not counted towards income.

This program is funded through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Services are provided through the Food Distribution Center and two tailgate sites.

The first Tuesday of the month food is distributed in Cherokee County and Snowbird locations for program participants.

Income guidelines for eligibility CTFDP Guidelines 10-1-23

The U.S. Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the bases of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, reprisal, and where applicable, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, sexual orientation, or all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program, or protected genetic information in employment or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the Department. (Not all prohibited bases will apply to all programs and/or employment activities.)

If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.

Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish).

TRIBAL FOOD POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL

TFDP Website: Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians – Tribal Food Distribution Program (ebci-nsn.gov)