Located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the Havasupai Tribe is uniquely vulnerable during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. With its lifeblood of tourism all but dried up and all non-essential travel in and out of the canyon suspended, the acquisition of necessary food and supplies is difficult and there is also the uncertainty of when, or if, government funding will arrive.

In steps Kahtoola, maker of the Microspikes and Nanospikes footwear traction, which has made a three-month commitment to employ its creative, emotional, and financial resources by identifying and supporting key relief efforts directed at helping those most impacted by COVID-19.  Locally, the company’s energy will focus on the Grand Canyon’s Havasupai Tribe and the Flagstaff Family Food Center.

In addition to allocating funds to support the Havasupai Tribe, Kahtoola is continuing its active role in opposing uranium mining in the Grand Canyon region.

 Kahtoola is also donating funds to the Flagstaff Family Food Center during the pandemic. With the indefinite closure of local schools and business, the demand on local food banks to feed those most in need has been heightened. Flagstaff Family Food Center’s need for financial and food donations, as well as healthy volunteers to help prepare and deliver food, is dire and continues daily.

“Kahtoola’s long-standing belief in the positive characteristics of people is what drives our business and we strongly believe that when our basic needs are met, we have a responsibility to add to the collective needs of others in whatever ways we can,” said Danny Giovale, Founder and Owner at Kahtoola. “Wherever you are, we encourage you to band together with us and support your local community.”