Nisqually Indian Tribe gives more than $1.9M to local agencies and organizations

The Nisqually Indian Tribe announced it distributed more than $1.9 million to over 150 local agencies and organizations, including The JOLT News, via its 2024 Charitable and Local Government Program.

The annual program focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in areas ranging from children’s services, community health and cultural preservation to environmental conservation, public safety and support of veterans.

In the past six years, the program has awarded more than $10 million to local charities and organizations. The total awarded via the 2024 program was a record.

“This year’s total contributions reached an all-time high,” said Nisqually Indian Tribe Chairman Ken Choke in a statement that accompanied the announcement on Jan. 10. “The grant recipients exemplify the values of service and dedication, and we are proud to support their efforts.”

The money, which comes from a portion of gaming revenues generated from the Nisqually Red Wind Casino, is awarded via a competitive application process to ensure the funds reach organizations that deliver critical services, said the Tribe in the announcement.

One of the recipients, All Kids Win, was highlighted by the Tribe in the announcement. The nonprofit organization provides weekend food for Thurston County students, who might otherwise go hungry.

The nonprofit serves more than 1,100 students across 49 schools. That includes middle and high schools in North Thurston, Olympia and Tumwater, as well as kindergarten through eighth grade students at Wa He Lut Indian School and kindergarten through 12th grade students in Rainier, Rochester, Tenino and Yelm.

“We are on track to deliver just under 34,000 weekend food bags by the end of the 2025 school year,” said All Kids Win Board Chair-Elect Matthew Kilfman in a statement that accompanied the announcement.

“Every dollar goes to food and operating costs, and generous grants like this ensure our volunteers can continue making a tangible difference in students’ lives.”