Tribal casinos across the United States are stepping up to address hunger in their communities during the holiday season and amidst the current federal government shutdown. These gaming establishments, operated by various tribal nations, are organizing food drives, distributing meals, and providing special promotions to assist families in need and government workers facing financial hardship.
Food Drives and Community Support Initiatives
In New Mexico, the Route 66 Casino Hotel and Dancing Eagle Casino, both part of the Laguna Development Corporation, are hosting a significant food drive on November 17 and 18. Visitors who contribute at least five non-perishable food items will receive free slot play credits as a token of appreciation. Maxine Velasquez, President and CEO of Laguna Development, emphasized the importance of supporting families during challenging times, noting that November is a month for gratitude and community support, as reported by CDC Gaming.
The initiative has garnered backing from partners such as Shamrock Foods, Pepsi, and PNM. In addition to the food drive, the company’s food truck, Laguna Burger, is set to provide free meals to children and families in the Pueblo of Laguna and through PBJ Family Services. Moreover, government employees can take advantage of a special offer at Route 66 Casino Hotel—buying one buffet and receiving another for free every Friday until the end of December.
Widespread Efforts Across the Country
Efforts to combat hunger extend beyond New Mexico. In Oklahoma, the Firelake Entertainment Center offers guests $10 in free play for each non-perishable item donated. Nearby, the Kiowa Casino & Hotel is running a “Cash for Food” campaign, rewarding patrons with gaming credits ranging from $15 to $500 for a $10 cash donation until November 8.
In Cache, the Comanche Cache Casino offers $50 in Comanche Credit for donors, with the opportunity to redeem this credit multiple times each week until November 20. Meanwhile, the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel in Colorado has initiated its “Mountain of Giving” campaign, allowing each donated item to enter participants into a drawing for $500 in cash, running until November 30.
In Wisconsin, the North Star Mohican Casino Resort is hosting a “Purse for the Pantry” drive, where Star Club members who donate food items on Thursdays throughout the month can win prizes. The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians in Michigan has also joined the cause, collecting canned and sealed food at health centers until November 25 for local food banks. In Arizona, Casino Del Sol is collecting non-perishable goods to support the Food Bank of Southern Arizona until mid-November.
These initiatives illustrate the commitment of tribal gaming businesses not only to provide entertainment and employment but also to ensure that no family goes hungry during this crucial time of year.
