Gianni Lacey-Howard

Project Nourish was created to provide acute food security relief for enrolled OBSN families and individuals experiencing urgent nutritional needs during the winter season. The project distributed food boxes filled with essential grocery items selected with care for common food sensitivities and health concerns prevalent in Southeastern tribal communities, including blood pressure, blood sugar management, and gluten or nut allergies. The primary goal was to ensure immediate access to nourishing and mindful food while supporting community well-being.

Project Nourish strengthened trust and community connection by ensuring families had reliable access to food during the winter months. By responding directly to immediate needs, the project reinforced a sense of collective care and mutual responsibility, particularly supporting Native families and youth by reducing stressors that can limit civic and community participation, along with overall well-being.

Community members expressed gratitude for the thoughtfulness of the food selections and the reassurance of support during a critical season. Families shared that the boxes and gift cards helped ease financial strain and made it easier to provide healthy meals for their households. In addition, each box included a handwritten holiday card to spread some cheer.

Coordinated and assembled 40 nutritionally mindful food boxes

• Distributed 40 food boxes to enrolled OBSN families and individuals
• Collaborated with community partners and donors to secure food and monetary support
• Facilitated distribution of supplemental Walmart gift cards for fresh produce, dairy, and essential items