SWANTON, VT – Yesterday, Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT) visited the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi Community Center ahead of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The Maquam Bay of Missisquoi recently received a $500,000 grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission, a Federal-State partnership. The grant funds will be used to renovate the headquarters. 

“It was a privilege to see the remarkable work being done at the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi Community Center,” said Sen. Welch. “It’s critical that we work together at every level to support those who need access to nutritious food and services – the Center’s dedication to helping their neighbors and strengthening their community is truly inspiring. This new grant from the Northern Border Regional Commission will help the Community Center make necessary repairs. I will continue to fight for more resources for rural and Tribal communities in Vermont and across America.” 

The Senator’s visit to the headquarters included touring the food shelf, which has experienced a tripling in demand in recent years. Over a quarter of Native Americans in the United States experience food insecurity, and food deserts are common in Tribal communities.  

Photos from yesterday’s visit can be found here:

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