*BMVP - Improving Food Security for Indigenous Communities

Program Overview

American Indian and Alaska Native communities face chronic, high-level food insecurity, with rates double to triple those of other populations. Significant economic hardship, including high poverty rates and widespread need for child nutrition support, is directly linked to systemic issues. While nutritional quality has improved, there is still a need to overcome remaining barriers to food security and to prioritize food sovereignty. Addressing food insecurity through a coordinated Community Meal Program and Elder Food Box distribution will improve physical health, stability, and overall well being for Native American individuals and Elders living in Billings. Consistent access to nutritious food reduces stress on limited household budgets, supports chronic disease management, and decreases reliance on emergency services. This project addresses poverty by reducing one of the most immediate and destabilizing expenses for low‑income households, food. By increasing access to free and culturally appropriate meals and food boxes, individuals and families can allocate limited financial resources toward other needs. Over time, improved food security contributes to better health outcomes, increased stability, and reduced crisis‑driven service use, which are key factors in breaking cycles of poverty.

Member Duties

• Conduct a community assessment to identify needs, gaps, and assets related to food distribution.
• Research funding sources and develop a funding matrix that outlines short‑term and long‑term funding options.
• Identify opportunities to improve programming.
• Develop operational tools and documentation to support program coordination.
• Create materials that promote community awareness.
• Design a tracking system and data collection process for staff to maintain.

Program Benefits

• Living Allowance
• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend
• Relocation Allowance
• Health Coverage*
• Training

For details about AmeriCorps VISTA healthcare benefits, please visit

Terms

• Car recommended
• Permits attendance at school during off hours
• Permits working at another job during off hours

Service Areas

• Health
• Veterans
• Homelessness
• Hunger
• Neighborhood Revitalization
• Tribal
• Education
• Housing
• Community and Economic Development
• Community Outreach
• Public Safety
• Technology

Skills

• Leadership
• Computers/Technology
• Public Health
• Team Work
• General Skills
• Social Services
• Communications
• Public Speaking
• Community Organization
• Writing/Editing
• Fund raising/Grant Writing

Program Start/End Date

08/10/2026 - 08/09/2027

Work Schedule

Full Time

Education Level

College graduate

Age Requirement

Minimum: 18, Maximum: None

Program Locations

MONTANA

Accepting Applications

From 05/07/2026 to 07/10/2026

Contact

Carly Collins
316 N 26th St
Billings MT 59101
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