HHS Awards $27.6M in Grants To Support Native American Tribal Leaders and Caregivers
HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson on April 25 announced $27.6 million in grants to 413 Native American elder and caregiver groups, an 8.5% increase over the last fiscal year. Some of the grant money, administered by HHS'
Administration on Aging, will go to 236 tribal organizations for nutrition and supportive services to help Native American elders "remain independent and healthy." Another 177 grants, part of the Native American Caregiver Support Program component of the National Family Caregiver Support Program, will help caregivers of American Indian, Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian elders. The Native American Caregiver Support Program, established in 2000, offers assistance to caregivers of chronically ill or disabled elders. Josefina Carbonell, assistant secretary for aging, said, "We know that an increasing number of Native American elders need assistance, and most prefer to remain in their homes, communities and on reservations. Our programs help to promote independence, well-being and positive life-styles while preserving the heritage of the Native American culture." A full list of the groups receiving grants is available online (HHS
release, 4/25).
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