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.

Food Fellowship: A program designed to gather excess food items that would traditional be discarded and distribute salvageable food to organizations that provide meals to those in need. This program does not distribute to individuals but to slected organizations.

Sportsmen Against Hunger: A program that accepts the donation of venision for USDA approved processing (processing paid for with donated funds) that will be distributed to individuals and households seeking food assistance through agency operated and supported emergency food pantries.

Food Wise Web Site: A NDSU Extension web site designed to assist households make good choices about nutrition, food preparation and the economical usage of food items. Visit the "Steps to Healthy, Economical Meals Cookbook" web site.