The Food Runs to Dilkon and Leupp - Early History

by John Aldrich, utilizing information provided by Ann Voda and Carol Ashton. Historic photos by Ann and Carol.

In two prior posts I tried to provide an overview of the food runs to Dilkon and Leupp. These included a bit of the history of those food runs. Subsequently Ann Voda and Carol Ashton have provided some additional details about those early years. Ann and Carol were a part of the original small group of volunteers that initiated these food runs.

The initial planning for these runs took place at a meeting in Winslow in May of 1999 that included Linda Myers, Cyndy Sheldon, Eunice Spencer, Louise Walker, Ann Voda, and Carol Ashton. Cyndy was a social worker at the Indian Health Service facility in Winslow and felt that the elderly population at both Dilkon and Leupp was in need of basic care and comfort items. Working with Eunice Spencer at Dilkon and Lorraine Walker at Leupp, a group of needy Elders greater than 70 years of age was identified and enrolled into the Program.

To keep the logistics simple, the Elders received $50 food certificates for Bashas supermarkets rather than food boxes at these initial food runs. There is a Bashas market located in Dilkon, and Winslow, a border town not far away, had one as well at the time. In addition to food certificates, Elders also received utility buckets filled with a variety of giveaway items that would be of assistance to their personal health and comfort.

In March of 2000 the first food runs took place. At Dilkon the meeting was held at the First Church Of The Nazarene, and at Leupp it took place at the local Chapter House. The group of volunteers that participated in this occasion were Linda Myers, Ann Voda, Carol Ashton, Sarah Sifers, Cyndy Sheldon, and Pearl Towne.

This photo, taken at the first Dilkon food run, shows Ann distributing items to the utility buckets that will be given to each of the Elders.

In September of 2000 the second food run to these locations took place and included these volunteers: Linda Myers, Ann Voda, Carol Ashton, Cyndy Sheldon, Pearl Towne, and Ray Coleman. In addition to food certificates, Elders received laundry baskets filled with soaps, scrubbers, towels, bleach, and other miscellaneous items. Ann and Carol did all the shopping for the items contained in the baskets for these initial food runs.

This photo, taken at Dikon in September 2000, shows Ann and Ray unloading giveaways from a car while Elder Bessie Paul looks on.

Here are some of the laundry baskets used to hold the giveaways.

After these first food runs, the number of volunteers increased and sponsors were found for the Elders. This made it possible for the food runs to evolve into full-blown food runs as we know them today. However, as mentioned in the other blogs about Dilkon and Leupp, the Elders at these locations have now elected to receive food certificates again in lieu of food boxes.

Ann Voda and Carol Ashton have been dedicated volunteers with ANE for many years and remained active in attending food runs until 2010. They still take part in the annual rug show where they can be found working at the hand spun rug table. Their heartfelt years of service and infectious laughter will always be an important part of ANE's history.

The Food Run To Leupp

by John Aldrich

This article is part of a series describing the various food runs that the Adopt-A-Native-Elder Program conducts to eleven different locations around the Navajo Reservation. These locations are served in groups of two or three sites per trip. The articles will hopefully be of general interest but also serve as an orientation for prospective food run volunteers and for those who have signed up for a particular food run.

The Leupp food run is part of a set of three, the others being Dilkon and Birdsprings. This food run set begins the three week period of food runs that constitute the bulk of our visits to the reservation. In the spring it occurs in late May and in the fall, late September.

Food runs to Leupp began in the late 1990's when Cyndy Sheldon, sponsor of an Elder at Many Farms, urged Linda to add this location along with Dilkon. Cindy lived in Winslow and saw the great need to serve elderly Navajos in the southern part of the reservation. At first these were small scale runs carried out by a just a few dedicated volunteers. Initially the Elders at these locations received food certificates rather than food boxes making these runs much simpler to carry out from a logistical standpoint. But soon Leupp and Dilkon were full-scale food runs with Rainow Boxes, produce, and gift boxes. Ironically, Leupp returned to its roots in 2012. Although the Elders still receive gift boxes and home-care products, they elected to return to receiving food certificates of comparable value in lieu of the Rainbow sets. They can use these certificates at a nearby Basha's grocery and choose those food items that they prefer.

Some additional history of the early years of this food run can be found in this blog. 

The following map* shows the Navajo Reservation with particular reference to the location of the food run at Leupp and the lodging base for this run which is Winslow. You can click on the map to see a larger view.

Leupp has quite an interesting history and was the first designated chapter on the Navajo Reservation. It also served as a site for a Japanese relocation camp during WWII. More of this history is chronicled in this article published by the Navajo Times.

The food run to Leupp takes place on Wednesday, the day following the Dilkon food run. After another breakfast meeting at Denny's Restaurant at the Flying J Travel Plaza, we hit the road for Leupp, a mere 29 miles away. This is the second shortest drive to any of the food run sites.

Although food runs here initially began at the chapter house, they have been held at the Senior Center for many years.

Our coordinator during these years at the center has been the beloved and colorful Lola Bahe.

Lola has been trying to retire for several years, but the center can't find a replacement and keeps calling her back. This is probably because Lola is irreplaceable.

Since this is another location that has elected to receive food certificates in lieu of food boxes, it's a bit simpler setting up the Rainbow Circle. But there are still plenty of boxes to be unloaded.

Things are a bit more spacious inside the center compared with Dilkon, but it's still a relatively small area to work in.

Each food run provides an opportunity for Elders to visit. Because of the dispersed nature of Navajo living, many of these people may not have seen each other since the previous food run.

Although Lola is the coordinator at Leupp, Mary Begay comes from Hardrock to serve as our translator. She also helps as Linda meets with individual Elders to assess how they are doing.

Those volunteers who are sponsors of an Elder at a particular food run look forward to seeing their Elder again (or meeting them for the first time). These are always special moments at the food run.

After everything is set up both outside and inside, the formal portion of the food run program begins. One of the first things to be done is pass out the food certificates which is quite a job at Leupp since everyone gets one. C.J. Robb who does a fine job coordinating all the logistics has an easier job here since envelopes are so much easier to handle than 35 pound boxes.

A light-hearted moment ensues when the oldest Elders are honored. One of the volunteers feels honored also as he gets to wear the special glasses  and lead us in a round of Happy Birthday.

When it's time for the Elders' portion of the giveaway, a number always step forward to share in their gratitude to the Program. Flora Smith and Betty Kelly have each donated several items.

Lola and her husband, Dean, sometimes treat us to a musical number.

Program giveaways to the Elders include special packages of useful items. These are lovingly assembled by volunteers at the warehouse in Salt Lake City before being transported to the food runs.

And weavers always receive yarn.

For the meal at Leupp, Lola typically has quite a feast for us. The senior center has a full kitchen and it's well-used. Some of the volunteers are assigned to the "food committee" and help Lola and her local crew prepare the food.

Sometimes some of the fry bread is cooked outside on a charcoal grill.

At the conclusion of one of the meals, Woody Smith rose to share his gratitude to the Program and its volunteers. Woody touched on how differently the Navajo people are treated by us as opposed to many of the Biligaanas (white people) that they come in contact with. Feelings of mutual respect and love abound at food runs.

At the conclusion of the event volunteers can shop for rugs and crafts brought by the Elders and their families. One of the unique things one will see on the reservation is items of clothing made from Blue Bird Flour sacks. Sheila McKinney models an outfit made from such material.

The food run ends about 2:00 in the afternoon. Volunteers are then free for the rest of the day. The drive back to Winslow often offers glimpses of the dramatic skies that this part of the world can produce.

The Food Run To Dilkon

by John Aldrich

This article is part of a series describing the various food runs that the Adopt-A-Native-Elder Program conducts to eleven different locations around the Navajo Reservation. These locations are served in groups of two or three sites per trip. The articles will hopefully be of general interest but also serve as an orientation for prospective food run volunteers and for those who have signed up for a particular food run.

The Dilkon food run is part of a set of three, the others being Leupp and Birdsprings. This food run set begins the three week period of food runs that constitute the bulk of our visits to the reservation. In the spring it occurs in late May and in the fall, late September.

Food runs to Dilkon began in the late 1990's when Cyndy Sheldon, sponsor of an Elder at Many Farms, urged Linda to add this location along with Leupp. Cindy lived in Winslow and saw the great need to serve elderly Navajos in the southern part of the reservation. At first these were small scale runs carried out by a just a few dedicated volunteers. Initially the Elders at these locations received food certificates rather than food boxes making these runs much simpler to carry out from a logistical standpoint. But soon Dilkon and Leupp were full-scale food runs with Rainow Boxes, produce, and gift boxes. Ironically, Dilkon returned to its roots in 2012. Although the Elders still receive gift boxes and home-care products, they elected to return to receiving food certificates of comparable value in lieu of the Rainbow sets. They can use these certificates at their local Basha's grocery and choose those food items that they prefer.

Some additional history of the early years of this food run can be found in this blog.

The following map* shows the Navajo Reservation with particular reference to the location of the food run at Dilkon and the lodging base for this run which is Winslow. You can click on the map to see a larger view.

The Dilkon area is unique geologically due to the number of volcanic buttes and cones that dot the landscape. Many of these buttes are revered as holy places by the local people. Dilkon is the seat of a chapter of the same name. The Navajo Times has produced a series of articles chronicling each of the chapters, and you can read more about Dilkon's history and challenges here.

The activities for this food run begin on a Tuesday when we gather in Winslow at the Rodeway Inn. Although hardly a luxury lodging, it is perfectly adequate, and the proprietor, Vic, makes every effort to be accommodating.

After a brief meeting for a preliminary orientation, we travel to the Winslow Visitor Center for our food run ceremony.

This serves to bring us all into one mind and spirit as we prepare for the next three days. This is followed by a meal at the same location, and then we are ready for a good night's rest.

The food runs at Dilkon were initially conducted at the Church Of The Nazarene, but in more recent years the local Mormon meeting house has generously hosted us.

On Wednesday morning we depart from Winslow after a morning meeting at Denny's restaurant which serves as our final orientation to the food run. It's a relatively short drive of 40 miles and the caravan often stops to pick up one of the Elders who waits along the roadside for Linda to stop.

When we arrive, it's time for the group picture.

The Mormon missionaries, who are part of this picture, are often very helpful and participate in the preparations and activities of the day.

The men, who normally have many food boxes to unload and stack, have a relatively easy time here now. For those who are experienced at food runs, this box circle will look quite unusual because of the absence of food boxes and produce. But the gift boxes and home-care products still make for a sizable line.

The biggest task inside is preparing the Program giveaways into a colorful display at the front of the room. Wendy has lots of help with this important job. We want each Elder to feel that they are receiving something special.

As the preparations proceed, Linda tries to find time to greet each of the Elders and inquire about their health and circumstances.

This is also a time that volunteers can visit with the Elders. The Dilkon food run is one of several that has a Navajo Code Talker among its ranks. Many volunteers appreciate the opportunity to meet these unique individuals. Sam Tsosie is always happy to greet the volunteers and willingly signs many books about the critical role these people served during WWII.

From the beginning, the coordinator for this food run has been Eunice Spencer whose service on behalf of her elders is greatly appreciated.

Although we are meeting is a relatively tight space, there still seems to be enough room.

Once the formal portion of the food run program is underway, a big job is handing out all of the food certificates.

Then, when it's time for some fun, Elders are honored for their age, starting with the oldest. Madeline Begay wins a box of Cracker Jacks for being one of the oldest.

The giveaways begin with an opportunity for those Elders who wish to make a donation to the Program or to their sponsor. Cleo Keams almost always has a rug to donate to ANE.

Elders present other crafts as well such as this small loom with a partially completed rug.

All of the volunteers take part in passing out the many Program giveaways. These always include some articles of clothing.

Bundles of yarn are always given to those Elders who are weavers.

This photo shows a small portion of what this Elder has received in her giveaway bag.

After the giveaways a meal is served to everyone. The Mormon meeting house doesn't have a real kitchen, so simple sandwiches are the usual fare.

Once the meal is over the Elders start to depart. Even without food boxes there are still other gift boxes and items to be loaded into their vehicles. With a gift box in hand and his food certificate in his pocket, Virgil Nez is ready to head home.

Some Elders linger behind to display rugs and other crafts for sale. There are always eager shoppers among the volunteers, and their purchases are another way of assisting our Elders.

After the food run is completed and the facility cleaned up, volunteers are free to find their own way back to Winslow. There is still plenty of time to see some of the sights in this historic waypoint along old Route 66.

In the evening we all gather at the Chinese restaurant across the road from our motel.

Everyone has their fill from a tempting buffet, and each food run participant has a chance to share something unique about their experiences of the day.

*This map is adapted from the wonderful Indian Country Map published by the Automobile Club of Southern California. Overlays have been created to show the borders of the Navajo Reservation as well as the food run sites (red) and lodging locations (turquoise) utilized by the food runs. Some of the road information is out of date (the roads to Navajo Mountain and the Big Mountain Food Run sites are now paved. Also, the reservation extends considerably further east into New Mexico than is shown on this map.

The Food Run To Navajo Mountain

by John Aldrich

This article is part of a series describing the various food runs that the Adopt-A-Native-Elder Program conducts to eleven different locations around the Navajo Reservation. These locations are served in groups of two or three sites per trip. The articles will hopefully be of general interest but also serve as an orientation for prospective food run volunteers and for those who have signed up for a particular food run.

The Navajo Mountain food run is one of a pair, the other being Oljato. This food run set is the first of the spring and fall seasons and takes place about a month earlier than the remaining food runs. In the spring it occurs in late April and in the fall, late August. These are the most recent of the locations to be added to the areas we serve.

The first Navajo Mountain food run took place in August of 2008. Like Oljato, it is supported by a generous grant from American Express who wanted to support areas in the Utah portion of the reservation. The following map* shows the Navajo Reservation with particular reference to the location of the food run at Navajo Mountain and the lodging base for this run which is Kayenta. You can click on the map to see a larger view.

As one can see from a careful look at the map, Navajo Mountain is in Utah, but just barely. To get there is a circuitous journey from Oljato. A crow would find the distance to be around 35 miles, whereas if one is limited to a car, the trip by road is well over two hours. If you've never been to the Colorado Plateau, it's difficult to imagine the labyrinth of canyons that protect the terrestrial approach to this location.

It's this remoteness that gives Navajo Mountain an important role in the history of the Navajo people. In the 1860's when Kit Carson was rounding up as many Navajos as he could for their forced march to Fort Sumner, many were able to escape and find refuge in this isolated area.

For the food run to Navajo Mountain we spend the night in relative comfort at the Wetherill Inn in Kayenta.

Kayenta is one of the larger towns on the reservation, but as such, it is still none too large. However, it does offer a grocery store and several dining options. When we arrive here after the Oljato food run, volunteers remain free to do as they wish.

The following morning we make an early departure for Navajo Mountain because of the length of the drive. There is time for a quick motel breakfast, and then we must be on the road. For me, at least, this drive is both relaxing and  fascinating because of the beauty of the land we pass through. When we turn off the major highway, U.S. 160, Navajo Mountain looms in the distance.

The unmistakeable dome shape of this landform is a familiar bearing for those traveling in this part of the country. From some vantage points it can be seen from as far as 100 miles away. As the terrain rises we enter the typical pinon juniper forest of this part of the world and the landscape is more clearly defined by canyons.

If we're lucky on the August food run, we will pass through masses of wildflowers along the roadside brought to bloom by the unpredictable summer rains.

All too soon, we arrive at the Navajo Mountain chapter house, the location for this food run.

The people of this area have been more isolated from the rest of the world than most on the reservation. Remoteness is definitely a factor, but in addition, the road to this spot was a notoriously rough dirt track until just before we began our food runs here in 2008. This may help to explain why the people of Navajo Mountain seem to be unusually welcoming to us when we arrive.

The Rainbow Circle of food boxes has a unique addition to each set at this food run. Navajo Mountain has had a very unreliable water source over the years with all of their culinary water derived from one spring which at times doesn't function properly. In honor of this special situation and hardship, each Elder receives two cases of drinking water.

At this particular food run in 2011 each Elder also received the gift of a shovel.

One of the big setup jobs before the program starts is arranging all of the ANE giveaways on a table at the front of the room. This is done under Wendy's supervision and always results in a very colorful display.

Once the preparations are finished, volunteers gather in the front of the room as Linda and Wendy address the Elders. At Navajo Mountain, Mary Robertson Begay serves as our translator. Mary makes a drive of over two hours to help us and often brings her husband, Harry, whose strong arms are most welcome moving boxes outside.

Our coordinator at this food run is Ruby Burns. She is in charge of the Senior Center and has great love and regard for the elderly Navajos in her area.

One of the "games" that Linda plays with the Elders involves counting backwards from over a hundred and honoring those who respond when their age is mentioned. The prize is a box of Cracker Jacks and lots of smiles.

The giveaway portion of the food run program is especially moving at this location. When Linda provides the chance for any of the Elders who wish to present a gift to come forward, there is always a large number who step up with rugs, jewelry, and other crafts. Some of the gifts are donations to the Program, some are intended for sponsors, and many of the gifts are bestowed upon the volunteers in attendance.

One of the most unique giveaways from an Elder was skeins of wool that had been hand cleaned, carded, and spun by the Elder from her own sheep.

Navajo Mountain is one of two food run sites (the other being Oljato) where basket weaving is a prevalent skill. This gift of a ceremonial basket was made to the Program.

When it's time for the Program and volunteer giveaways, each Elder receives a plastic bag into which the giveaways are placed. This peek into one of the bags shows some of the special things that have been received.

As the gifts flow back and forth, it is easy to feel that gulf between cultures is being diminished by the feelings of mutual love and respect.

Following the giveaways and the meal, it's time to load the Elders' vehicles. The men once more swing into action as the cars and trucks file past the Rainbow Circle to be loaded.

A happy Elder will look forward to looking through his boxes and giveaway bag when he reaches home.

As each set of food run begins with a ceremony, each ends with a closing circle. This is an opportunity for a brief farewell and expression of gratitude.

The food run is over typically between 2:00 and 3:00 in the afternoon. Volunteers are then on their own to begin their travels home. The drive back down the mountain is just as beautiful. For those who wish to spend a little extra time, the historic Shonto trading post is only a few miles off the route and is well worth a visit to get a glimpse of what one of these outposts was like a hundred years ago.

*This map is adapted from the wonderful Indian Country Map published by the Automobile Club of Southern California. Overlays have been created to show the borders of the Navajo Reservation as well as the food run sites (red) and lodging locations (turquoise) utilized by the food runs. Some of the road information is out of date (the roads to Navajo Mountain and the Big Mountain Food Run sites are now paved. Also, the reservation extends considerably further east into New Mexico than is shown on this map.