Hunger Task Force donates refrigerated van to Ho-Chunk Nation

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- Local tribal members will have the opportunity to learn more and eat well thanks to the Hunger Task Force.

On Wednesday, they donated a new refrigerated van to members of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

The van will be used to support the tribal health department's food sovereignty program, which teaches members about traditional food sources, preparation and using food as medicine.

The Ho-Chunk health and wellness coordinator says it's crucial to have the resources to eat like their ancestors, because it's not just access to a healthy diet, but a connection to their past.

"Making sure those indigenous foods are a part of our community's diet and will be forever, then you will develop that confidence and identity with who and what you're eating and the people you're connected with down through the past. It sounds a little romantic, but in real life, in communities, it matters," said Jon Greendeer, health and wellness coordinator for Ho-Chunk Nation.

The Ho-Chunk Nation is a member of the Hunger Relief Federation of Wisconsin, a group of 143 local food pantries representing all 72 Wisconsin counties and 10 tribal nations.