A Tribal Elder’s Path Through Adversity

Louie, a 77-year-old tribal elder from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe in Washington’s lush Olympic Peninsula, is deeply connected to his heritage. Despite growing up away from the tribal area, he maintained his connection to his heritage through his S’Klallam father and regular tribal engagements. The tribe supported him in getting his bachelor’s degree at The Evergreen State College when he was 73, even helping him move to Olympia for his studies.  

Louie’s professional life took an unexpected turn after 30 years in information technology. “I lost my job and couldn’t find another, so we had to lose our house,” he reflects.  

Food insecurity is especially high among Native Americans, often double or triple the rates of other households, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. 

In search of support, Louie turned to AWARE Food Bank. More than food, he found a community rich with stories and support. “I’m pretty happy with what we get here. We look forward to coming here,” he shares.  

His appreciation deepens when discussing the food bank’s offerings: “I like this food bank a lot. There’s more here than anywhere else. I mean, did you see how much I got in my cart today?” His chuckle reflects both relief and gratitude. 

Louie is also committed to giving back. He shares extra food with neighbors and uses his tech skills to help his tribe.

At a tribal event, a casual conversation led to a significant discovery for a tribe’s member. “I sat down there, and there’s a lady sitting at the table across from me. I said, what tribe are you from? She says, Jamestown S’Klallam,” Louie recounts. Discovering she didn’t know her family lineage, Louie helped her trace her roots using a database he developed, dating back to the 1700s. 

Louie’s experience highlights the importance of community support and resource sharing. It shows how deep connections to our past and each other help us face challenges.  

With support from donors and community members, AWARE Food Bank and Islam MekMek-Haws are vital in providing steady access to nutritious food and combating this widespread issue. 

Our commitment at AWARE is to uphold these values, ensuring that elders like Louie and others in our community lead dignified, interwoven lives.