During November, Monadnock Food Co-op partnered with National Co+op Grocers (NCG) and 165 other co-ops across the county to raise money for The North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NĀTIFS); a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing Indigenous food systems and promoting cultural preservation and sustainability within Native American communities

NCG member co-ops donated 5 cents for every Field Day product sold during the promotion. Collectively, we raised over $139,000 between Oct. 30 and Dec. 3. Monadnock Food Co-op shoppers played a vital role in this successful fundraising campaign, contributing $877.50 to support NĀTIFS!

NĀTIFS is founded by Lakota Chef Sean Sherman (known as the Sioux Chef). Through initiatives like the Indigenous Food Lab, NĀTIFS offers training programs, educational workshops and support for Indigenous entrepreneurs to empower individuals and foster economic development.

By addressing economic disparities, food insecurity and the loss of Indigenous food knowledge, NĀTIFS aims to restore health, wealth and cultural identity to Indigenous populations. The organization’s commitment to promoting Indigenous foodways education, facilitating food access and revitalizing ancestral knowledge underscores its mission to create positive social impact and support underserved communities.

This article contains information provided by NATIFS & NCG.