Tribal Casinos Join Forces Nationwide to Combat Hunger During Shutdown
Tribal Casinos Lead Food Drives Amid Federal Shutdown
Across the United States, tribal casinos are stepping up efforts to combat hunger as many communities face challenges during the holiday season and the ongoing federal government shutdown. These tribal gaming enterprises are organizing food drives, distributing free meals, and offering special promotions to support families in distress and government employees facing delayed paychecks.
Community Food Drives at Route 66 and Dancing Eagle Casinos in New Mexico
In New Mexico, the Route 66 Casino Hotel and Dancing Eagle Casino, both operated by the Laguna Development Corporation, are hosting a major food drive on November 17 and 18. Guests who donate a minimum of five non-expired canned or packaged food items will receive complimentary slot play credits. Employees have also been encouraged to contribute, ensuring swift delivery of donations to nearby food banks.
Maxine Velasquez, President and CEO of Laguna Development, highlights the importance of aiding families during difficult periods. She notes that November is a time to express gratitude and assist those in need. This initiative is supported by local partners including Shamrock Foods, Pepsi, and PNM.
Beyond donations, Laguna Burger, the company’s food truck, will distribute free meals to children and families within the Pueblo of Laguna community and through PBJ Family Services. Additionally, government workers can enjoy a special offer at the Route 66 Casino Hotel, where they can purchase one buffet and receive a second buffet free every Friday until the end of December.
Incentives for Food Donations at Casinos Across the Country
Oklahoma’s Shawnee Firelake Entertainment Center rewards guests with $10 in free play for each donated nonperishable food item. Nearby, the Kiowa Casino & Hotel is running a “Cash for Food” campaign, offering gaming credits valued between $15 and $500 in exchange for a $10 cash donation; this promotion runs through November 8. The Comanche Cache Casino in Cache awards donors $50 in Comanche Credits, which can be claimed multiple times weekly until November 20.
Further north, the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel in Colorado hosts the “Mountain of Giving” campaign through November 30, giving donors the chance to win $500 in cash with each donated item. In Wisconsin, the North Star Mohican Casino Resort holds its “Purse for the Pantry” drive every Thursday during the month, where Star Club members who contribute food items can enter to win prizes.
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians in Michigan is collecting canned and sealed goods at local health centers through November 25, with all donations going directly to community food banks.
Meanwhile, Casino Del Sol in Arizona continues to accept nonperishable food items for the Food Bank of Southern Arizona until mid-November.
Tribal Gaming: More Than Entertainment
These initiatives underscore the commitment of tribal gaming businesses to their communities. Beyond providing entertainment and employment, they are actively ensuring that no family goes hungry during this challenging season.
