Turtle Island Resources

Tag: help

  • Family resources

    Family resources

    Federal & Tribal Programs Supporting Families

    Services for Native Americans (OAA Title VI)

    Grants under the Older Americans Act (Title VI) help tribes deliver nutrition programs, caregiver support, home-based services, and assistance for grandparents raising grandchildren—designed to keep families strong and independent.
    ACL Administration for Community Living

    Administration for Children & Families (ACF) Tribal Programs

    Includes:

    • Tribal TANF — Empowering tribes to design welfare and child welfare programs tailored to family strength.
    • Native Employment Works (NEW) — Supports job readiness and employment services for family providers.
    • Child Care & Development Fund (CCDF) via the Office of Child Care — Financial assistance for quality child care that supports working parents.
    • Office of Child Support Services — Helps enforce child support aligned with tribal values.
    • Head Start (Tribal) — Early education and comprehensive services for Native children and families.
      Administration for Children and Families+1Administration for Children and Families

    Cultural & Community-Based Family Support

    NICWA (National Indian Child Welfare Association)

    Provides vital information and resources related to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), supporting parents, caregivers, and service providers navigating child welfare systems.
    NICWA

    NAPPR – Tribal Home Visiting Program (New Mexico)

    A culturally tailored program offering in-home support to Native families with young children. Services include parenting education, child development guidance, socialization activities, and community resource connection for families up to when their child turns five.
    nappr.org+1

    Division of Indian Work (Minneapolis-area)

    Offers in-home parenting support and education for families involved in child protection, delivered by culturally grounded Parenting Capacity Workers or Cultural Home Educators.
    Division of Indian Work+1

    MINNESOTA INDIAN WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER (MIWRC)

    Focuses on family stabilization by providing parenting education, life skills training, prevention, reunification support, housing, and culturally responsive mental health services.
    miwrc.org

    Minneapolis American Indian Center – Family Services

    Programs include:

    • Early Intervention Program — Offers financial aid for essential needs (rent, utilities, clothing) and cultural activities like field trips and family fun nights.
    • Family Stability Program — Prevents crises with case management, resource referrals, and emergency support for families in Hennepin County.
      Minneapolis American Indian CenterMinneapolis American Indian Center

    NAYA Foster Care Services (Portland, OR)

    Provides culturally appropriate foster care support, independent living programs, and assistance in preserving tribal traditions during family transitions.
    nayapdx.org

    United American Indian Involvement (UAII)

    Offers family preservation services in Los Angeles—including parenting education, peer support, fun family activities, financial literacy, home visits, and access to basic needs like food and school supplies.
    211LA

    Healthcare & Special Needs Family Support

    Family-to-Family Healthcare Information Center for Tribal Communities

    Supports families with special medical needs by helping them navigate health benefits, SSI, telehealth, advocacy skills, workshops, and direct assistance—especially in remote tribal communities.
    parentsreachingout.org

    Community Insights & Peer Perspectives (Reddit Voices)

    “Our community… prevention services offering fun activities (baking, tie-dye, beading kits, workshops). I’m setting up a 10-week prenatal & postnatal support group with culturally connected supports…”
    — A Mi’kmaw organizer building long-term, culturally rooted family engagement
    Reddit

    “MIWRC… provides support groups, family services and housing assistance… healing is at the heart of everything.”
    — Highlighting the power of culturally-grounded services for Native families
    Reddit

    Overview Table

    Resource TypeHighlights
    Federal/Tribal ProgramsTitle VI services, Tribal TANF, Child Care Fund, Head Start
    Family Advocacy & Early YearsNICWA (ICWA support), NAPPR home visiting
    Parenting & Cultural SupportDIW (MN), MIWRC, Minneapolis AIC family programs
    Foster & Youth ServicesNAYA Foster Care (OR)
    Family Services & PreservationUAII (LA), community emergency support
    Healthcare SupportsTribal Family-to-Family Healthcare Center
    Community InsightsReddit feedback on program needs, engagement strategies
  • Emergency Resources

    Emergency Resources

    Emergency resources for Native Americans are designed to provide immediate assistance during times of crisis, such as natural disasters, health emergencies, and other urgent needs. Here’s a list of available resources that can help Native American communities in times of need:

    Indian Health Service (IHS)

    • IHS Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Provides immediate health services, including during public health emergencies, for Native American communities.
    • IHS Disaster Preparedness: Works with state and federal agencies to provide health support during disasters.

    Website

    FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)

    • Emergency Assistance for Native American Tribes: FEMA provides assistance for tribes to prepare for and respond to disasters, including grants for emergency response and recovery efforts.
    • Individual Assistance Program: Offers support for Native American individuals who are victims of disaster, including funding for housing, food, and medical needs.

    Website

    Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) – Office of Justice Services

    • The BIA provides emergency assistance in the form of law enforcement and support services during crises affecting tribal communities. They also coordinate emergency response resources during natural disasters.

    Website

    National Native American Emergency Management Council (NNAEMC)

    • Works to improve emergency management policies and practices within Native American communities, offering resources for tribes in need of assistance during disasters.

    Website

    American Red Cross

    • Disaster Relief for Native Americans: The Red Cross provides emergency assistance, including food, shelter, and medical services during natural disasters. It also partners with Native American organizations to support communities in need.

    Website

    The Native American Disaster Relief Fund

    • A fund designed to provide immediate financial aid and resources to Native American tribes and individuals impacted by disasters.
    • Managed by several organizations, including local tribal governments and national advocacy groups.

    Website

    Tribal Emergency Assistance Programs

    • Many Native American tribes have their own emergency programs that offer food, clothing, shelter, and financial aid to members in crisis situations.
    • Examples include programs managed by individual tribal governments or through the Indian Community Development Block Grant (ICDBG) Program.

    Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Indian Housing Block Grant Program

    • Provides funds to tribal communities for housing relief during emergencies such as fires, floods, or severe weather events.

    Website

    Tribal Nations Emergency Assistance Programs

    • Many tribes provide specific emergency assistance to their members, which can include food, shelter, health care, and other necessities during times of crisis.
    • Assistance often depends on the specific tribe or region, so contacting tribal offices is essential for support.

    Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)

    • Offered through state labor departments, DUA provides unemployment benefits to individuals whose employment has been lost or interrupted as a result of a disaster. Native Americans can apply through their state’s disaster response programs.

    Website

    Native American Relief Fund by the First Nations Development Institute

    • This fund helps Native American communities recover from emergencies, particularly in cases involving public health crises, natural disasters, or economic hardships.

    Website

    American Indian College Fund

    • In times of educational emergencies or financial hardship, the American Indian College Fund offers support to Native American students who are affected by crises such as natural disasters or health emergencies.

    Website

    National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)

    • The NCAI advocates for policy changes and provides emergency resources to tribes facing immediate challenges, including during public health emergencies, climate-related disasters, and more.

    Website

    The National Indian Health Board (NIHB)

    • Provides health-related emergency services and resources, especially during public health emergencies or when Native American communities face sudden health threats such as pandemics.
    • Supports tribes in accessing federal emergency health resources and funding.

    Website

    Indian Country COVID-19 Response Fund

    • Created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this fund provides financial support and resources to Native American tribes and communities during the ongoing pandemic or in the event of future public health emergencies.

    Website

    Indian Law Resource Center – Legal Assistance During Emergencies

    • Provides legal advocacy and assistance in times of emergency, especially related to land rights, resource management, and public safety during natural disasters.

    Website

    These resources provide Native American communities with the tools they need to respond to emergency situations, whether through health care support, financial relief, legal assistance, or recovery efforts. Each tribe may also have unique resources and contacts, so it is helpful to connect directly with local tribal governments or organizations for additional support during crises.

  • Bill Assistance Resources

    Bill Assistance Resources

    Several resources are available to help Native Americans pay bills, including assistance for utilities, housing, healthcare, and emergency needs. Below is a list of resources that can provide financial assistance to help cover various living expenses:

    Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

    • Purpose: Provides financial assistance to help low-income households pay for heating and cooling costs, as well as energy-related home repairs.
    • Eligibility: Available to Native American households, including those living on tribal lands.
    • Administered by: State and tribal agencies.

    Website

    Indian Health Service (IHS)

    • Purpose: Provides healthcare services to Native Americans, including some programs to help with medical bills and health-related expenses.
    • Eligibility: Native American individuals and families.
    • Services: Covers medical bills, health services, and sometimes prescriptions, depending on the program.

    Website

    Tribal Energy Assistance

    • Purpose: Some tribes have programs that help residents pay utility bills, especially during emergencies or after natural disasters.
    • Eligibility: Native American individuals living on tribal lands may be eligible for assistance.
    • Services: Assistance with energy bills and energy-saving programs.

    Contact local tribal offices for specific programs available in your area.

    Emergency Assistance Programs by Tribes

    • Purpose: Many tribes offer emergency assistance programs that help pay bills such as utilities, food, rent, and healthcare during financial hardships.
    • Eligibility: Assistance is typically available to tribal members who are facing emergencies or temporary financial crises.
    • Services: Varies by tribe but may include utility bill assistance, rent, or emergency housing assistance.

    Contact your local tribe for specific information about their programs.

    Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) – Financial Assistance

    • Purpose: Provides grants and financial assistance to Native American families to help cover bills, housing, and other emergency needs.
    • Eligibility: Native American individuals and families in need.
    • Services: Provides general financial assistance for individuals facing difficult situations.

    Website

    The Native American Financial Assistance Program (NAFAP)

    • Purpose: Offers financial aid to Native American families who need help paying bills, especially in emergencies such as medical crises or housing-related issues.
    • Eligibility: Native Americans and their families in need of emergency assistance.

    Website

    Section 8 Housing Assistance (Housing Choice Vouchers)

    • Purpose: Offers rental assistance to low-income families, including Native Americans, to help with housing expenses.
    • Eligibility: Available to Native American families who meet income requirements. Native Americans living on tribal lands may qualify for tribal housing assistance programs.
    • Services: Helps pay a portion of rent directly to landlords.

    Website

    The Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP)

    • Purpose: Provides financial assistance for emergency needs, including food, rent, and utility payments.
    • Eligibility: Native Americans living in low-income households may be eligible for short-term assistance.
    • Services: Emergency food, shelter, and utility assistance.

    Website

    American Indian College Fund (Emergency Financial Aid)

    • Purpose: Provides emergency financial assistance to Native American students attending college, helping to cover tuition, living expenses, and bills.
    • Eligibility: Native American college students who are facing financial hardship.
    • Services: Financial aid for students struggling to pay for basic needs, including housing and utility bills.

    Website

    USDA Rural Development – Utility Assistance

    • Purpose: The USDA Rural Development program offers utility assistance to rural and tribal communities, including Native Americans, who need help paying water, sewer, or electric bills.
    • Eligibility: Native American communities in rural areas or tribal lands.
    • Services: Helps reduce utility bills or provides subsidies for low-income households.

    Website

    Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

    • Purpose: Provides cash assistance to low-income families, including Native American families, to help with essential expenses like utilities and food.
    • Eligibility: Native American families who meet income and need-based criteria.
    • Services: Temporary financial assistance to cover utilities, food, housing, and other essential needs.

    Website

    Tribal Emergency Assistance Funds

    • Purpose: Many tribes set up emergency funds for their members to cover utility bills, medical costs, and other emergency expenses during hardships.
    • Eligibility: Typically available to tribal members experiencing emergencies.
    • Services: Financial assistance for urgent needs, such as paying utility bills.

    Contact your local tribe for more information on this assistance.

    Native American Housing Assistance Programs (NAHASDA)

    • Purpose: Provides financial assistance for Native American families who need help with housing costs and repairs, as well as assistance with utility bills.
    • Eligibility: Native American families, especially those in low-income households or living on tribal lands.
    • Services: Rental assistance, housing repair funding, and utility bill assistance.

    Website

    National Indian Health Board (NIHB)

    • Purpose: Provides financial assistance and resources for healthcare needs, including help with medical bills.
    • Eligibility: Native American individuals and families who need support with medical expenses.
    • Services: Assistance programs for medical costs and health-related expenses.

    Website

    The Salvation Army – Utility Assistance

    • Purpose: Offers utility bill assistance to families and individuals in financial distress, including Native Americans.
    • Eligibility: Varies by region, but assistance is typically available to low-income families, including Native Americans.
    • Services: Provides short-term financial assistance for utility bills and other emergency expenses.

    Website

    American Red Cross – Disaster Relief

    • Purpose: Offers financial assistance during emergencies, including covering utility bills for displaced individuals and those affected by natural disasters.
    • Eligibility: Assistance for those affected by disasters, including Native Americans.
    • Services: Emergency financial support for those in need of temporary housing or assistance with utilities.

    Website

    FCC Lifeline Program

    • Purpose: A federal program that provides discounts on phone and internet services for low-income households.
    • Eligibility: Native American households that qualify for federal assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may be eligible.
    • Services: Provides a monthly discount of up to $9.25 for phone or internet services. For Native Americans living on tribal lands, the discount increases to $34.25 per month.

    Website

    Tribal Lifeline and Link-Up Program

    • Purpose: A special version of the Lifeline program tailored to Native American communities living on tribal lands. This program offers enhanced support to make phone and internet services more affordable.
    • Eligibility: Native American households on tribal lands that meet the income qualifications or participate in a federal assistance program.
    • Services: Provides significant discounts for phone and broadband internet services for households in need.

    Website

    Connectivity and Technology Programs by Tribes

    • Purpose: Many tribal governments have their own programs aimed at improving broadband access in tribal areas and helping low-income Native American families with internet costs.
    • Eligibility: Available to tribal members or residents in certain regions.
    • Services: May include internet subsidies, community Wi-Fi networks, or discounted rates for broadband service in tribal areas.
    • Contact: Contact your local tribal government or community organization for more information on available internet programs in your area.

    Internet Service Providers Offering Discounted Plans for Low-Income Families

    Several internet service providers offer affordable or discounted internet plans for low-income households, including those available to Native Americans:

    • Xfinity Internet Essentials: Offers discounted internet for eligible low-income households, including tribal communities.
    • Cox Communications Connect2Compete: Provides low-cost internet for families with children in grades K-12, which could benefit Native American households.
    • Charter Communications Spectrum Internet Assist: Offers affordable internet service for qualifying low-income households.

    Eligibility: Generally, households receiving government assistance such as Medicaid, SNAP, or school lunch programs can qualify.

    Xfinity Internet Essentials

    Cox Communications Connect2Compete

    Spectrum Internet Assist

    The Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) / Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

    • Purpose: The EBB, now replaced by the ACP, provides discounts on broadband internet service for eligible low-income households.
    • Eligibility: Low-income Native American households that meet specific requirements (e.g., participation in government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or tribal programs).
    • Services: Offers a discount of up to $30 per month for internet service, with increased benefits for households on tribal lands (up to $75 per month).

    Website

    Affordable Internet for Education – Tribal Schools

    • Purpose: Some tribal schools provide discounted or subsidized internet access for students and families who need assistance.
    • Eligibility: Native American students and families enrolled in tribal schools may qualify for discounted internet services to support remote learning.
    • Services: Discounted internet access for educational purposes, including broadband for students attending remote school programs.
    • Contact: Check with your tribal school or local educational agency for available services.

    These resources offer various forms of financial assistance, such as bill payment support, housing assistance, emergency funds, internet and\or phone service help and health-related aid. To access these resources, contact your local tribe, regional government, or the respective agencies directly for specific eligibility requirements and application procedures.

  • Housing Resources

    Housing Resources

    Here are several housing resources and programs available to support Native American individuals and families:

    Federal Programs

    1. Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) Program
      Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this program provides grants to Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) for affordable housing activities.
    2. Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program
      Offers home loan guarantees to Native American borrowers, facilitating access to private mortgage financing.
    3. Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Housing Improvement Program (HIP)
      A grant program addressing housing needs through repair, renovation, or new housing construction for eligible individuals who cannot obtain assistance from other sources.
    4. Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA)
    1. Housing Assistance Council
      • Website: www.ruralhome.org
      • Provides funding and technical assistance for housing projects in rural Native communities.

    Tribal Housing Authorities

    Tribal Housing Authorities (THAs) and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) manage housing programs within their respective communities. Contacting your local THA or TDHE can provide information on specific housing assistance available in your area. A directory of these entities is available through HUD’s Office of Native American Programs.

    Additional Resources

    • National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC)
      Provides training and technical assistance to Native housing entities and maintains a resource hub for homeowners and renters seeking assistance.
    • Native American Housing Opportunities (NAHO) Fund
      Offers grants to support housing initiatives for tribes and TDHEs, enhancing affordable housing availability.

    For personalized assistance, consider reaching out to local housing authorities or community organizations that may have programs tailored to your needs.