Choctaw Nation Launches Temporary Food Assistance Amid Federal SNAP Disruption

DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) is launching a Temporary Food Assistance Program for Tribal members nationwide who will not receive federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in November. This initiative is part of the Choctaw Nation Sustainability Fund, established in 2012 to support tribal members during times of need.

The decision comes after the federal government announced that SNAP participants will not receive benefits as scheduled due to the ongoing shutdown.

“Many of our members around the Nation rely on SNAP benefits to feed themselves and their families,” Batton said. “With the federal government temporarily unable to meet its obligations, we will look for ways to help tribal members in need.”

Eligible Tribal members and guardians of Tribal member children can apply for a one-time $150 food assistance Nov. 3-14 through the Chata Achvffa member services portal on CNO’s website. Once approved, recipients will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card through the mail.

Applicants must be Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Tribal Members that reside anywhere in the U.S., approved for SNAP benefits, provide a copy of their SNAP card and sign an attestation agreement.

The Choctaw Nation is also extending the application deadline for its Thanksgiving and Christmas food vouchers through Nov. 8. The vouchers are available to eligible low-income Choctaw members living within the reservation who do not apply for the Temporary Food Assistance Program.

To learn more and apply for these programs, visit the CNO service page.