- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer on Thursday signed a resolution that reallocates CARES Act funds for Hardship Assistance for enrolled citizens of the Navajo Nation who are 60 years old and over, and who previously demonstrated need for assistance to mitigate the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The resolution was passed on Wednesday night by the Navajo Nation Council during a special session held on Wednesday. Nearly $16 million in CARES Act funds will provide approximately $300 dollars per eligible person 60 years and older.
Want more Native News? Get the free daily newsletter today.
Elders will not need to re-apply for the hardship funds. The Office of the Controller is beginning the payment process and elders can anticipate receiving the check payment in this week or next.
“We love and cherish our elders very much. This pandemic has created many challenges for everyone, especially our elder parents and grandparents. Throughout this pandemic, we’ve been to all 110 chapters and we’ve listened to the stories and experiences shared by our people and we understand that there are many needs within homes and among families. We strongly encourage our people to use the funds for essential items, supplies, bills, and other expenses that provide financial relief and help your loved ones overcome this modern-day monster known as COVID-19,” said President Nez.
In accordance with federal requirements, CARES Act funds were required to be used no later than Dec. 31, 2021.
In a separate action, the Council also approved on Wednesday, a resolution for Hardship Assistance using American Rescue Plan Act funds, which would provide $2,000 per adult and $600 per minor for enrolled citizens.
The Office of the President and Vice President is awaiting the delivery of the resolution from the Legislative Branch, as of Thursday.
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsNative News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
This Day in History – Dec. 26, 1862: 38 Dakota Men Executed by Order of Abraham Lincoln
Bald Eagle Finally Becomes the Official Bird of the United States
Merry Christmas from Native News Online
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.
No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.