BELCOURT – The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Tribal Government announced it has activated a federal shutdown emergency services plan to ensure community members continue to have access to food, heating and critical support during the federal government shutdown. Priority will be given to elders, children and households with the greatest needs.

The plan takes effect Monday, Nov. 3.

Bi-weekly food cards will be made available for SNAP recipients and furloughed workers who are tribal enrolled members in Rolette County.

Community kitchens in Belcourt and Dunseith will be open seven days a week, with prepared bagged meals and hot meals daily. Senior noon meals will continue, and evening bag lunches will be added.

Emergency funding is being extended for K-12 weekend backpack programs as well as more limited assistance for Turtle Mountain College students. The programs are being administered through the schools and college.

The existing Food Distribution Program, the food pantry and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) will operate as usual.

For clients of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), emergency heating assistance will be available for those in greatest need.

The tribal government stated it will continue to monitor the situation and adjust services as needed while advocating for the resources its people deserve.