Dakota Prairie Community Action Agency

Emergency Services: Food

DPCAA uses a combination of any three different sources of food supplies to meet a household's food needs. In virtually all cases, non-perishables from the food pantry and available surplus commodities are used to supply needed food. When funds are available, perishable food items are purchased to meet the household's food needs.

Food is provided to meet emergency needs and is not intended to provide an on-going supplement to the food stamp program. Under normal circumstances food will be provided only two (2) times during a 12 month period. When the individual or house hold in need receives FOOD STAMPS a referral from County Social Services is required and may be done over the telephone.

Surplus commodities can be provided on a more regular basis and is then subject to availability and the specific needs of the household. In special documented cases of extreme need, food assistance may be provided more frequently based on a clear understanding of the reasons for continued assistance. DPCAA has the ability to obtain limited hot meals for those that require such assistance. This service is designed primarily for the homeless transients and is subject to the availability of funds.

Learn about specialized food programs.