NATIVE HEALTH Newsletter Upcoming Events

Volume 16, Issue 6 - June 2022

Greetings! Hello. June is here and we all know what what that means. It's warmer, days are longer, and school is out. We know that things are getting back to normal though, maybe faster than we thought. We have a lot of great community activities planned for the summer. There are FREE STEM Camps at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa through Arizona Science Center, free food for adults and children at all NATIVE HEALTH locations, upcoming cultural classes, free backpacks and school supplies with back to school or AIA sports physicals with a NATIVE HEALTH Medical Provider. Please take a minute and read the newsletter to find some helpful resources and programs for you and your family. Things the government had put in place at the beginning of COVID are now beginning to unwind. It is especially important to check your mail. If you are on AHCCCS, it is possible or likely you received a letter to respond to some questions. If you don't, you could be dropped. Please see the article block below with information and a photo of the envelopes. NATIVE HEALTH's Family Health Advocates can assist you with renewing or updating your AHCCCS information, in person, via phone, or Zoom, weekdays, evenings, and weekends. We are beginning to gear up for summer and fall activities. We are planning our Annual Traditional Children's Pageant on Saturday, October 1, at Phoenix College's Bulpitt Auditorium. Applications are now being accepted and there are three categories, two of which are competitive. For more information about the Pageant, please click here. We are also planning our Annual Open House after the NARD Parade on Saturday, October 8. Save the date on your calendar and watch for more details!

Arizona Science Center is hosting Camp Innovation, a FREE STEM Camp, at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. There will be some great programs, including some Indigenous focused activities. There are three FREE sessions, the week of June 13 for Kindergarten and first graders, the week of June 27 for grades one and two, and the week of July 11 for second and third graders. This is a great opportunity. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Thank you to Arizona Science Center and Arizona OnTrack for funding these camps. For more information or to register, please call (602) 716-2028 or email them.

NATIVE HEALTH is excited to announce we are now on FM radio! NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous radio show and podcast, Native Talk Arizona, is now available on FM radio on Wednesdays at 4:06 p.m. on KRDP, 90.7 on Wednesdays and kicks off three hours of Indigenous Talk Radio. You can also listen to the show on internet and podcasts on iTunes Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! Check it out and let us know what you think. For more information or to contact us about being a guest, please email Susan.

NATIVE HEALTH has received funding from Salt River Project Employee Boosters Association and the Arizona Food Bank Network. Funding from these donors will support NATIVE HEALTH's food distribution programs, which continue to distribute over 6,000 meals per month. This funding will allow us to continue supporting the community. NATIVE HEALTH thanks these organizations for their continued support in addressing food insecurity. Thank you Salt River Project Employee Boosters Association and Arizona Food Bank Network.

Now, more than ever, it is important to keep up on your child's physical and mental health. NATIVE HEALTH is now scheduling children's exams, back to school physicals, and AIA Sports Physicals, with NATIVE HEALTH's Medical Director/Pediatrician, Dr. Diana Dunnigan, M.D. and other medical providers. Each child receiving a back to school or sports physical at NATIVE HEALTH will receive a FREE backpack and school supplies. Any location, any time, with any NATIVE HEALTH medical provider. And don't forget to schedule a dental check up for your child at NATIVE HEALTH's Dental Clinic. NATIVE HEALTH's Dental Clinics are open at NATIVE HEALTH Central and NHW Community Health Center. NATIVE HEALTH's Medical Clinics are again open until 7:00 p.m. For more information or to make an appointment please call (602) 279-5262.

NATIVE HEALTH is kicking off Indigenous Young Chefs in the Kitchen. This Indigenous cooking, craft, and literacy program is geared for youth ages five and over and will be presented on NATIVE HEALTH's Facebook page every Thursday, beginning Thursday, June 9, for eight weeks, at 10:00 a.m. There are some great recipes, books, and crafts that will be presented. Tune in and let us know what you think. Thank you to Season for Sharing for funding this innovative program!

NATIVE HEALTH has reached a milestone! We now have 15,000 followers on NATIVE HEALTH Phoenix Facebook Page! We would like to thank the 15,000 FB followers who watch our page, follow us, share, and comment on what we're doing! You don't need to have Facebook to see what's going on in the community. If you haven't checked out the page, click here to see what everyone's seeing! Thank you NATIVE HEALTH's Facebook followers! We appreciate you!

Each year NATIVE HEALTH has an Annual Meeting. This year, we are again having NATIVE HEALTH's Annual Meeting virtually. This meeting will be available for viewing, Friday, June 24, at 2:00 p.m. on our Facebook page. This is a time when we present the Annual Report to the community. We hope you will join us and watch our Virtual Annual Meeting on our Facebook page. The Annual Report will be posted on our website for your review.

COVID vaccine boosters are now available for ages 5-11! The CDC and ACIP recommend that children ages 5-11 SHOULD receive a single COVID-19 booster, according to the details: *For children age 5-11 years with healthy immune systems, boosters should be administered 5 months after the 2-dose primary COVID-19 vaccine series. *For children age 5-11 years who have weakened immune systems should also be offered boosters. A booster dose should be offered 5 months after the additional dose. Currently, only the Pfizer-BioNTech is authorized for administration for children and adolescents age 5-17 years. NATIVE HEALTH has walk-in COVID vaccines and boosters at NATIVE HEALTH Central, NATIVE HEALTH Mesa, and NHW Community Health Center, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. No appointment needed, just walk in! For more information contact Amber at (602) 279-5262 x 3481 or email her.

Please visit our website and Facebook to learn about our exciting events!   NATIVE HEALTH is actively supporting you and your family by staying connected. Want to stay connected on a daily basis with NATIVE HEALTH and the community happenings? Did you know you can check out our Facebook page even if you don't have Facebook? Click here to view our Facebook page. There are many opportunities that come up outside of the newsletter. As soon as we receive important information, we post it on our Facebook page. The 11th Annual Native American Responsible Fatherhood Day (NARF) is June 19. This day is to honor and celebrate the importance of fatherhood. NATIVE HEALTH recognizes the importance and contributions of all fathers. NATIVE HEALTH wishes all fathers a wonderful and healthy Father's Day. You are appreciated for making a difference in the lives of your children and family. Until next month, Walter Murillo Chief Executive Officer

Contact Information - Updated NATIVE HEALTH Hours and Services during COVID-19

NATIVE HEALTH - Central 4041 North Central Avenue, Building C Phoenix, Arizona 85012 P (602) 279-5262 F (602) 279-5390 Visit Website

Medical Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Virtual Health Care - 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Same Day Medical Appointments: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. NATIVE HEALTH, NHW Community Health Center and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program. CMDP and many private insurance plans are accepted. Sliding fee scale available at NATIVE HEALTH and NHW Community Health Center. Please email Amanda for additional information or you may call (602) 279-5262. Emergency Dental Appointments: Monday-Friday 8:00-10:00 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m. Walk-in emergency dental appointments are available on a walk-in basis. First come, first served. Routine dental care is done by appointment. For more information or to make an dental appointment, please call Gina at (602) 279-5262 x 3402 or email her.  All AHCCCS Plans, American Indian Health Program, CMDP, and private insurance plans are accepted. Sliding fee scale available.

Behavioral Health: Monday-Friday Accepts AHCCCS for behavioral health services. Behavioral Health Intakes are available by appointment and on a limited walk-in basis. In-person or virtual assessments are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. following completion of intake documentation. Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred. NATIVE HEALTH is an AHCCCS Complete Care provider and accepts all AHCCCS plans. For more information contact Carmen at (602) 279-5262 x 3204 or email her.

Services: Group counseling services now held in an individual counseling format. Intensive Outpatient Program Domestic Violence Offender Group for Men Case Management services now provided telephonically Domestic Violence Victim Advocate Support  Public Health Nurse support Substance Abuse and Suicide Prevention support Other services, for ages 6+ Individual, family and group counseling Psychiatry

Food Distribution - Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-noon. Grab and go kid's meals and curbside pick up for individuals and families. Arizona Department of Economic Security - Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility - Services are available at NATIVE HEALTH Central and are available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Arizona Department of Economic Security - ARIZONA@WORK. ARIZONA@WORK employment is back on site at NATIVE HEALTH, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please call (602) 279-5262, x 3144 or contact Stephen via contact them via email.

NATIVE HEALTH Mesa 777 West Southern Avenue, Building C, Suite 301 Mesa, Arizona 85210 P (480) 550-4048 Visit Website

Medical Services: Building E Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Same day appointments available. Virtual Health Care: 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. NATIVE HEALTH Mesa accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program.  For additional information call (480) 550-4048. Behavioral Health Services: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Behavioral Health intakes are by appointment and a walk-in basis.  Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred. All AHCCCS plans accepted. NATIVE HEALTH is an AHCCCS Complete Care provider. For information or to make an appointment contact LaShauntai at (480) 550-4048 or email her. Services include individual and family counseling, as well as parenting.

Food Distribution for Children, Individuals and Families: 8:00 a.m.-noon, Tuesday-Friday, for curbside, grab and go kid's meals, individuals and families. Must self certify need for individuals and families. Health Start, Home Visiting and LAUNCH Programs: Information and enrollment. Call for information. WIC Hours: NATIVE HEALTH WIC will continue to provide services by phone at 1-(800) 470-5930. If you've received a text from NATIVE HEALTH WIC, you can text back with questions or concerns.

NHW Community Health Center 2423 W. Dunlap, Suite 140 Phoenix, Arizona 85021 P (602) 279-5351 F (602) 279-5361 Visit Website

Medical Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Virtual Health Care: 8:00 a.m.-7:00. p.m. Starting November 2021, the Northwest Extension Phase II Light Rail Extension Construction has changed. Patients and clients of NHW Community Health Center should plan and expect intermittent traffic restrictions. There ARE alternate ways to get to NHW Community Health Center. To access the map, please click here. NHW Community Health Center accepts all AHCCCS (Medicaid) Health Plans and American Indian Health Program. CMDP and many private insurance plans are accepted. Sliding fee scale available. For additional information call (602) 279-5351. Kid's grab and go meals available 3:30-5:00 p.m. Behavioral Health Services: Monday-Friday Now accepting AHCCCS for behavioral health services. Behavioral Health intakes are by appointment and a walk-in basis Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 pm. Bring required documents and copies of court orders. Please arrive at least 30 minutes early for your intake appointment to complete necessary paperwork. Forms may now be completed online through NATIVE HEALTH's website, if preferred. For information or to make an appointment contact Carmen at (602) 279-5262 x 3204 or email her. Services: Individual and family counseling Tele-Psychiatry on site

NATIVE HEALTH - Photos from May

NATIVE HEALTH staff attended the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Day at the State Capitol. Seventh-grade students at Phoenix Country Day School created Mother's Day notes for NATIVE HEALTH's Urban Native American Senior Food Boxes. Recipients remarked how much they enjoyed the beautiful Mother's Day cards. Thank you Phoenix Country Day School. NATIVE HEALTH received another 15,000 COVID test kits from Maricopa County Department of Public Health. These kits are being distributed to various community partners and during outreach events. Thank you Maricopa County Department of Public Health for your continued support.

NATIVE HEALTH hosted its first in-person Read it and Eat since COVID at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. Families made watermelon pizza and took home produce bags filled with fresh produce. Thank you to Arizona Complete Health for their continued support of Read it and Eat. Shout out to Winter Wood of Native Ground Coffee for his very generous donation of coffee for NATIVE HEALTH's Urban Native American Senior Food Boxes. This donation enabled many seniors to enjoy a great morning cup of coffee! Thank you Winter and Native Ground Coffee for your very generous donation and continued support. NATIVE HEALTH would again like to thank Debbie Hamilton for her donation of this month's beautiful, handmade quilt. Each month Debbie spends countless hours designing and sewing these quilts. They are then given to a child in NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Program. Thank you Debbie Hamilton for making a difference!

NATIVE HEALTH thanks IRC's New Roots program for their very generous donation of produce boxes that were distributed at NATIVE HEALTH's food distribution programs. Produce boxes contained carrots, Banana Peppers, zucchini, eggplant, Armenian Cucumbers, Swiss Chard, kale, arugula, basil, and mint. Thank you IRC New Roots! The LAUNCH team had a successful Ice Cream Social at the park. Families came and cooled off with some ice cream and played some games. Our home visiting programs are currently enrolling children 0-8 years. We will be having another Ice Cream Social at our Mesa location in July. Keep an eye out for information coming soon! Any questions please contact Camille via email or call 602) 279-5262 x 3324. NATIVE HEALTH staff attended Native American Recognition Days (NARD) Day at the Arizona Diamondbacks. We distributed string drum kits which participants decorated in a variety of ways.

Wellbearto's Travels

Wellbearto visited Boston Public Library. He learned that it was established in 1848 and it was the first free municipal library in the United States. Wellbearto also found out that the Boston Library has 26 branches. This one was his favorite though! Wellbearto learned that there was a Harvard Museum of Natural History. They had many, many exhibits such as Glass Flowers, Great Mammal Hall, Evolution, From the Hands of Makers, and many more! He loved spending his afternoon wandering around and learning!

Wellbearto made another quick trip to New York. He stayed in Long Island City (Queens) and loved this view! Wellbearto is always looking for photo opportunities. He saw this and said cheese! Wellbearto loves New York pizza. He found this great pizza place and ate there every day! His favorite is veggie pizza.

The wildflowers were blooming in New York. Wellbearto learned there were ferries where he was staying in Queens. He had never ridden a ferry in this area but this time he rode it back and forth. It was awesome (and inexpensive with great views)! Wellbearto had seen this building before and wondered what it was. It was the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA's) P.S.1 formerly P.S.1. Contemporary Art Center, is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit arts centers in the United States devoted to contemporary art. He bought a ticket, visited, and thought there were some very interesting exhibits.

Follow Wellbearto on Facebook. You can also find him on NATIVE HEALTH's website! You never know where you will find him! ‌ ‌

NATIVE HEALTH's Program Offerings

NATIVE HEALTH's Youth Resiliency and Tribal Practices Programs

The Youth Resiliency Program at NATIVE HEALTH hopes you are all doing great and enjoying your start to summer. Don’t forget to drink a lot of water and keep busy with fun activities. If you are looking for something to do, check out the wonderful programs in the Community Health and Wellness Department. This June, the Youth Resiliency program is collaborating with Pony Puff Beads for a beading class on Thursday, June 16. There will also be a Traditional Cooking Demonstration with the Indigenous Wellness program on Friday, June 17. In addition, we are hosting a three-day Baby Ribbon Skirt workshop on June 23, 24, and 25. These classes are for youth, ages 11-24 and their families. If you, or someone you know, knows youth ages 11-24, please let them know about our upcoming events. More information can be found on NATIVE HEALTH's website and Facebook pages for registration links and details. It is important for us to share culturally enriching events and education, while connecting the youth to behavioral health services and other resources.

A great day recognize this month is June 19 which is National Reading Day! The Youth Resiliency program encourages everyone of all ages to grab a book, article, poem anything you want and take the time to read on this day. Reading can be such a great way to spend time free time and immerse yourself in another world. Our Youth Book Club, the Young Indigenous Readers, will finish reading the third book in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and we can’t want to read the next book, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. If you know anyone 11-24 years old who may be interested in the Young Indigenous Readers book club, please reach out, as we are always looking for new members to have great discussions and make new friends. Book Club meetings continue to be virtual and bi-weekly in the evenings for an hour. If you, or your youth need summer reading recommendations let us know we can send you a list of Indigenous books and authors! If you, or someone you know, needs assistance in connecting with behavioral health services, community resources, Youth Resiliency, and Tribal Practices, or other NATIVE HEALTH programs please reach out to Britney.

Every Native Vote Counts

Did you know that the State Primary elections are upon us! The deadline for Primary Voter Registration is July 5, just a short month away. The deadline to request a vote by mail ballot is July 22. Primary Early Voting begins July 6 and the Primary Election is August 2. 2022 is an election year! It's never too late to start thinking about voting. Making sure you are registered is the first step! Here's a few key dates for this year's elections: State Primary Election Election Date: August 2, 2022 Deadline for Voter Registration: July 5, 2022 at 12:00 a.m. MST Deadline to Request Vote-By-Mail Ballot: July 22, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. MST Early Voting Begins/Ballots Mailed if Requested: July 6, 2022 Check your voter registration status or register to vote click here. Learn how to request a ballot by mail or sign up for the Permanent Early Voter List, visit the Arizona Secretary of State's website.

NATIVE HEALTH Application Assistance

As the Public Health Emergency (PHE) unwinds there are many events and actions to consider. One of the many to consider is most importantly how does this affect your health care centers and health coverage. Many individuals have been unemployed due to the pandemic and have considered Arizona Medicaid their main source of health benefits coverage. During the pandemic many of the member guidelines have been flexed for on-going coverage, the top example is renewing your application on an annual basis. All renewals have been auto-renewed the entire time the PHE has been in effect. This means that none of the income guidelines were being assessed. This will soon change as the PHE comes to an end. What does this mean for those currently on AHCCCS? This means that Department of Economic Security (DES) will be sending out renewal letters to all members who have on-going assistance throughout the PHE. It is important to make sure that all of your contact information is up-to-date. Information such as phone number, mailing address, and email are all current. You may also take initiative to speak with someone to renew your benefits to make sure you are to keep your benefits for the next coming year. You are able to renew your benefits the following ways; through a DES eligibility worker, an application assistor, or online via healthearizonaplus.gov. Your NATIVE HEALTH facility does have application assistors at all three locations.  Your Arizona Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Programs (CHIP) health coverage includes well- child checkups, dental services, and immunizations at no cost to you. Take the time to enroll within our Arizona Medicaid and CHIP programs, its free and you will be on your way in no time! Let us help you signing up or renewing your coverage from NATIVE HEALTH. Email Andrell or call (602) 279-5262 x 4105 for in person or telephonic assistance, days, evenings, or weekends. Get yourself, your family, and your children the health coverage they deserve and have one less thing to worry about.

NATIVE HEALTH's New Virtual DUI Education Program

NATIVE HEALTH’s Behavioral Health Department is now offering a Virtual DUI Education Program. If you have been charged with DUI and need to complete mandatory classes to meet court requirements this can be met at NATIVE HEALTH. The DUI Education Program will be held via zoom on Tuesdays and Thursdays for four hours, four times a month, to meet the Arizona DUI Education requirements of 16 hours. How do you enroll? You must complete a DUI Screening at a local resource center. If you are not sure where to go to complete this, please contact Kayla at the phone number or email below. Once you have completed the DUI Screening you will need to complete a Behavioral Health Intake at NATIVE HEALTH. This program will only be held at NATIVE HEALTH Central. If you have any questions in regard to the program or other Behavioral Health Services please contact the Recovery Services and Suicide Prevention Case Manager, Kayla-Rae Wakeland, at (480) 550-4048 x 4106 or via email.

NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Program

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The Indigenous Wellness Program would like to acknowledge Family Health & Fitness Day. Family Health & Fitness Day is held on June 11, and this special day promotes the importance of parks and recreation in keeping communities healthy and active. We encourage families to participate in a variety of family friendly activities, such as walking, hiking, biking, kayaking, golfing, swimming, tennis, and more. For more information about City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation sites, please click here. Families that exercise together stay together! There are many reasons why family exercise has amazing benefits. Here are just a few reasons: Children’s brains grow with exercise – researchers show when children exercise it positively affects their brain structure. Promotes family bonding – families that exercise together build strong relationships; encourage each child and parent to choose various fun activities to keep things fun and different. Develops great health practices – teach the family the health benefits of movement like reduce levels of depression, stress, anxiety, and improved sleep. Increases family communication – when you’re moving, laughing, and talking with your family communications skills grows. For more information on any upcoming events, please email Amanda.

NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Programs

Meet our Mesa Home Visitors As we continue to adapt to the pandemic, the Home Visiting Program has gone hybrid. We continue to support families in the convenience of their home while being safe either being virtually or in-person.   What We Do: Home Visitors partner with families and help provide the following services; Offer developmental activities for parents and children Help connect you with resources in the community Provide information and support during pregnancy and throughout your child’s earliest years Child Development Screening(s) Monthly Group Connections filled with fun, educational activities with other Home Visiting families   The Home Visiting Program services families within Maricopa County from expecting mothers to the age of eight years old. Virtual and telephonic visits are available. For more information about NATIVE HEALTH’'s Home Visiting programs or to enroll, please contact Camille Miller at (602) 279-5262 x 3324 or email Camille.

Native Talk Arizona

Native Talk Arizona airs Wednesday afternoons, 4:06 p.m. on KRDP 90.7 FM, KRDP's internet radio, and iTunes Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts! HEALTH's radio show, Native Talk Arizona, is available as a podcast on iTunes Podcasts Google Podcasts, and also on Spotify! Weekly interviews cover a wide variety of topics that interest the Native American community. May guests included: Monique Nakai, Rez Refuge and Rez Refuge Community Center; Desiree Jones of the Arizona Cancer Center; Connor Chee, musician and composer; Shawn Zephier, owner of Sweetermoccs; Casandra Foster, Student Conservation Association; Shaliyah Ben and Will Yarbrough of Idylwild Arts; Jon Ghahate of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center; Alexandra Zamecnik Native Seeds/SEARCH; Clarence Hogue, Indigenous Farm Hub; Adam Pirion, Sundance Film Festival's Indigenous Program; Kathleen Mascarenas, Salt River Project; Jeffrey Lazos Ferns for Pueblo Grande Indian Market; and Tygel Pinto, Navajo Flute Musician with a hip hop influence. Click here to listen to the current show and past shows If you, or someone you know would like to be a guest on Native Talk Arizona please contact us.

June is Men's Health Month

Did you know there is a month entirely dedicated to raising awareness for issues impacting the health and wellness of men and boys? The purpose of Men's Health Month is to heighten awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection of diseases including cancer, heart disease, and depression. June is Men's Health Month- spread the word and make sure every loved male in your life is living well. Early screenings! They will not only save money in the long run, but they can also save your life and/or make it easier to manage if diseases are caught early on. Exercise, because it is summertime! Father's Day is coming up! Why not give the father figure in your life the gift of knowledge along with your gift? There are many resources that will help educate your father and provide information about the risks of prostate cancer and other diseases. Tweak your diet. You can do anything for a month, and if you do it for a month, you can do it for life! Set some goals. Use this month to take stock of your health now and think about where you want it to be. Do you want to lose weight? Gain muscle? Simply eat more vegetables? Set small and achievable goals and work with your medical provider to make them a reality. Get educated. Take this opportunity to read more about the common health issues that are specific to men and how you can prevent yourself from getting hurt. Check the CDC website for more health information. NATIVE HEALTH can help the men in your life on their road to good health. For more information call (602) 279-5262.

NATIVE HEALTH's Behavioral Health Resource Program

NATIVE HEALTH's Behavioral Health Department has a Resource Program for individuals who are actively enrolled or in the process of seeking treatment within NATIVE HEALTH's Behavioral Health Department. The program provides assistance with employment, food security, financial assistance (determined by need and eligibility), case management, housing resources, transportation coordination, and more. For more information please contact Belen.

NATIVE HEALTH's Positive Indian Parenting

Positive Indian Parenting is a FREE, eight session, culturally-inspired, interactive class that explores the values and attitudes expressed in traditional Native American child-rearing practices, and then apply those values to modern parenting skills. One class per week, Tuesdays, 3:00-5:00 p.m., presented via Zoom. There are 30 slots available, and the group is open to the public. Session 1: Traditional Parenting – Welcome and Introductions Session 2: Lessons of the Storyteller Session 3: Lessons of the Cradleboard Session 4: Harmony in Child Rearing Session 5: Traditional Behavior Management Session 6: Lesson of Mother Nature Session 7: Praise in Traditional Parenting Session 8: Choices in Parenting: Completion Celebration Positive Indian Parenting facilitated by: Ember Z. Tahy, Maternal and Child Health Program Manager; Maisie Herman, Maternal Child Health Program Social Worker, and Camille Miller, Data Assistant – Project LAUNCH. Positive Indian Parenting program will satisfy court requirements. Participants must complete six or more groups to receive certificate of completion and incentive. Anyone referred from social services or court for parenting group are encouraged to join. Free and open to all parents. Must reside in Maricopa County. Class materials will be mailed to participants. For more information call (602) 279-5262, x 3324 or email Camille.

NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden News

In May, we started harvesting our spring crops, including tomatoes, chiles, green beans, and summer squash. The corn started tasseling in May and the ears are forming. The Traditional Garden also hosted a virtual Medicinal Plants Workshop which covered healing properties of different traditional and non-traditional plants, how to prepare herbs and medicinal plants for infusing, and how to infuse the plants in different liquids. Thank you to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona employees (Blue Gives Back) and the families who joined our monthly Second Saturday Community Garden Workday in May! Volunteers helped us harvest bulb onions, save marigold seeds, move compost, and refresh our Native language plant signs. We appreciate their continued support! Thank you Bill Robinson, from Crazy Chile Farm, for your generous donation of Indigenous seeds. We welcome you to join the next Second Saturday Community Garden Workday, June 11, 8:00-10:00 a.m. located at NATIVE HEALTH’s Traditional Garden (1822 West Pierson Street in Phoenix). There is free covered parking at the 19th Avenue and Camelback Road Park & Ride. Closed-toe shoes are required for all garden events. What to plant in June: Basil, beans, melon, sunflowers, Winter Squash, and watermelon. For more information about NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden, please contact Lilian via email.

Youth helped refresh our Native language plant signs during the Second Saturday Workday. Thank you to the youth and families that assisted in the Traditional Garden. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona employees (Blue Gives Back) help turn the compost pile. Thank you, Blue Gives Back!

The Navajo Copper Popcorn is now tasseling! This is an infused oil and tincture from the Medicinal Plants Workshop.

Check out these beautiful tomatoes and green beans (from Tohono O’odham pink bean plants). Tomato and sunflower rows at the Traditional Garden.

NATIVE HEALTH's WIC Program

June is National Fruit and Vegetable Month Have you ever tasted a rainbow? Eating a rainbow of fruit and vegetables is a great way to give your body a boost and provide nutrients vital for health and maintenance of your body. By adding more vegetables to your diet, you can increase fiber and potassium intake, something that many do not get enough of in their diets. WIC provides a monthly allowance of fresh fruits and vegetables that can be purchased in stores. Women and children used to only get $11.00 and $9.00 per month of fruits and vegetables, but Congress has passed through September 30, 2022, $43.00 per month for pregnant and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, $47.00 per month for breastfeeding women, and $24.00 per month for children!

Did you know WIC income guidelines changed as of May 2, 2022? The income limit has increased by $1,000-$2,000 from last year so more families may be able to qualify. Clients can also show proof they are active on AHCCCS, SNAP, and TANF instead of showing household income. WIC is here to support you with supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education/counseling, breastfeeding support, and referrals to other community programs! Did you also know? · WIC can help provide some medically prescribed formulas for infants and children with qualifying medical conditions. · WIC can provide a breast pump to a breastfeeding woman after a breastfeeding assessment is done by one of the WIC team members. · Women and children used to only get $11.00 and $9.00 per month of fruits and vegetables, but Congress has passed through 9/30/22 $43.00 per month for pregnant and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, $47.00 per month for breastfeeding women, and $24.00 per month for children! Who qualifies? · Infants; · Children up until their 5th birthday; · Pregnant women; · Breastfeeding women up until infant’s first birthday; Non-breastfeeding postpartum women up until 6 months postpartum; · Foster parents or legal caregivers can apply for their infants and children under 5 years old with documentation they are under their care; · Pregnant women who have experienced a miscarriage can apply and be on the program 6 months after the miscarriage date. What is needed to apply? *Parent’s ID; *Child’s ID; *Proof of address that they live in Maricopa County; *Proof of income which can be as simple as showing they are active on AHCCCS, SNAP, or TANF OR sending all sources of income in the household within the past 30 days of their appointment date; *Proof of pregnancy, if applicable; *Proof of miscarriage (date may be needed for new participants who weren’t already on the program as pregnant). How to apply? · Interested participants can call (602) 263-1558 or 800-470-5930 to set up their appointment. · Complete the Pre-application Online and a WIC Staff will reach out. WIC Pre-Application Portal (itcastars.net) Appointments will continue to be done over the phone or through videoconferencing until the Federal WIC Waiver ends in July 2022. Participants can have the option of an in-person appointment starting in June of 2022. (These dates are subject to change). This institution is an equal opportunity provider.  In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. If you would like to know more about how WIC can help with fresh fruit and vegetables, NATIVE HEALTH WIC is here to assist you and your family. For more information call (602) 263-1558. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

NATIVE HEALTH's Food Distribution Programs

Do you, or someone you know, need food? It's FREE and available for anyone. Are you interested in utilizing our NATIVE HEALTH Food Pantries? How It Works! 1. Select a NATIVE HEALTH Food Pantry nearest to you (NATIVE HEALTH Central or NATIVE HEALTH Mesa). 2. Park is designed parking area for curbside pick up. 3. Wait in your vehicle. 4. NATIVE HEALTH Food Pantry Staff will collect your information and load your car with food. Food Pantry programs by location:  NATIVE HEALTH Central (Central/Indian School in Phoenix) Curbside / Grab and Go **Please look for designated parking area** Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – Noon Following information needed: Full Name, number of people in household, number of children and zip code. Food Programs available at NATIVE HEALTH Central: Family Food Bags Snack Bags Backpack Program CSFP- Commodity Senior Food Program URBAN Native American Senior Food Bag Program Kids Café/Summer Food Program Prepared meals funded by Feed Phoenix Initiative (photo above right). Available once weekly, depending on availability.

NATIVE HEALTH Mesa (Southern/Extension in Mesa) Curbside / Grab and Go **Please look for designated parking area** Tuesday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – Noon Must provide full name, Maricopa County address, and date of birth. Self-declares to meet designated income guidelines. (Financial documents are not needed) Dependent on number of individuals within the household. Food Programs available at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa: TEFAP - The Emergency Food Assistance Program CSFP- Commodity Senior Food Program URBAN Native American Senior Food Bag Program Kids Café/Summer Food Program NHW Community Health Center (Dunlap/24th Avenue in north Phoenix) Grab and Go – please see front desk at Suite 140 Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. No Information needed Kids Café Meals ONLY (0-18 years old) Thank you to St. Mary's Food Bank, United Food Bank, Midwest Food Bank, and various donors for supporting this very important program. We hope to see you soon! If you have any question please contact Shannon Hadley, Food Coordinator, at (602) 279-5262 x 3134 or via email.

NATIVE HEALTH's Virtual Talking Circles

NATIVE HEALTH has Virtual Talking Circles Sundays, 10:00 a.m.-noon. All are invited to attend the Virtual Talking Circles. Registration is via Zoom. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation email containing Cultural guidance is provided by Roy Johnston. For more information contact Kayla Rae at (480) 550-4048 x 4106 or email her.

NATIVE HEALTH's Virtual DUI Education Program

NATIVE HEALTH’s Behavioral Health Department is now offering a Virtual DUI Education Program. If you have been charged with DUI and need to complete mandatory classes to meet court requirements this can be met at NATIVE HEALTH. The DUI Education Program will be held via zoom on Tuesdays and Thursdays for four hours, four times a month, to meet the Arizona DUI Education requirements of 16 hours. How do you enroll? You must complete a DUI Screening at a local resource center. If you are not sure where to go to complete this, please contact Kayla at the phone number or email below. Once you have completed the DUI Screening you will need to complete a Behavioral Health Intake at NATIVE HEALTH. This program will only be held at NATIVE HEALTH Central. If you have any questions in regard to the program or other Behavioral Health Services please contact the Recovery Services and Suicide Prevention Case Manager, Kayla-Rae Wakeland, at (480) 550-4048 x 4106 or via email.

2022 Native American Recognition Days

Native American Recognition Days is back! It was tough cancelling Native American Recognition Days events last year, but with 2022 almost half over, the Native American Recognition Days committee would like to move forward with accepting applications for events taking place during the months of October, November, and December. If you are interested in having your event listed, whether it be a virtual, hybrid, or in-person event, please contact Bree. (NARD Card from Fall 2019).

Want to get involved and help?

Are you looking to make a difference in the community? If so, NATIVE HEALTH is a great place to get involved. Please explore our opportunities. We always need community support. This can be financial, in-kind donations and so much more! (Photo taken pre-COVID). Learn More

Community Resources

Scholarships June 15 Deadline - Phoenix Indian Medical Center Auxiliary's Indian Health Career Awards for the fall semester. For more information check the website. June 24 Deadline - Frank Harrison and Harry Austin Voting Rights $2,500 Scholarship Essay contest. Inter Tribal Council of Arizona. For more information click here. July 29 Deadline - Inter Tribal Council of Arizona's scholarship essay opportunity for Fall 2022 academic semester. The Native Education for All Scholarship Essay. Applicants must be residing and living in Arizona, attending a community/tribal college, college, university or vocational/technical school in the state of Arizona Fall 2022-2023 Academic Year. $2,000 scholarship for three students. For more information contact Monique. August 5 Deadline - Arizona Indian Education Association's 2022-2023 AIEA Student Scholarship Application. This scholarship is open to American Indian students residing in AND attending a school, or community college/university in Arizona. For more information please check the website or contact Esther via email. COVID Resources Updated Resources and PSA's - Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health's COVID Resources. For more information click here. Lifeline is a federal benefit that lowers the cost of phone or internet service. Qualifying is the first step to getting your Lifeline Benefit. For more information click here. FEMA Funeral Resources - FEMA offers funeral assistance to families who have lost a loved one due to COVID-19. For more information call FEMA at (844) 684-6333. Tribal Resources Navajo Nation American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) information. For more information or the ARPA Hardship Application click here. Arizona Department of Economic Security's Office of Tribal Relations - Link for any Tribal member in Arizona who is having here. AZ Tribal Health Listserv - University of Arizona's Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. Email them to be added to the Listserv. My Native Plate - Two page nutrition education tool, designed as a placemat. Easy to understand and shows balanced meals with reasonable portion sizes. For more information click here. Native American Children's Literature Recommended Reading List - Click here to view the list. Did you serve in the military between 1977 and 2005? The Arizona Department of Revenue may owe you money! The United States Department of Defense began mandatory Arizona income tax withholding on all active duty military pay on September 1, 1993 and continued withholding Arizona income tax through December 31, 2005. On November 22, 2000, the United States Justice Department issued a memo declaring that the taxation and withholding of state income taxes from active duty military pay of Native Americans domiciled on their reservation was impermissible. Beginning January 1, 2006, Arizona no longer taxed active duty military pay and therefore discontinued state income tax withholding on this type of income. The Native American Veterans Income Tax Settlement Fund was established on July 1, 2016 to refund Arizona income tax erroneously withheld from Native Americans who served in the military while claiming tribal land as their domicile from September 1, 1993 through December 31, 2005. During the 2017 Arizona legislative session House Bill 2158 was introduced to amend the original legislation when it was discovered the Department of Defense may have withheld Arizona income tax prior to September 1, 1993. Effective August 9, 2017, refunds may be claimed for years 1977 through 2005. For more information, see Pub 706 at go.usa.gov/xzPVr. If you served in the military between 1977 and 2005, please complete this form to file your refund request, https://azdor.gov/native-american-vet-settlement-fund-claim. Please act soon, your refund request must be received prior to December 31, 2022. If you need assistance, please call the Arizona Department of Revenue at (602) 255-3381.

Tribal Resources Employment position with Arizona Department of Education's DAS and Title I/II Tribal Grants Specialist positions, Office of Indian Education. For more information click here. American Indians with Cancer Support Group - Healing Circle. Wednesday afternoons via Zoom. Cancer Support Community, Arizona. For more information check the website (on the NAZ calendar). Native American Programs and Enrollment Information at ASU, UA, and NAU - For more information click here.  Strong Hearts Native Helpline - StrongHearts Native Helpline is a safe, anonymous and confidential domestic, dating and sexual violence helpline that offers culturally-appropriate support and advocacy for American Indians and Alaska Natives. For one-on-one advocacy, click on the Chat Now icon https://www.strongheartshelpline.org/ or call 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483). New Native Film podcasts recorded in Phoenix, AZ; Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. For more information visit www.nativefilmtalk.com. Vision Maker Media - 6 videogames with Native American influences. For more information click here. Arizona State University's Preparing Educators for Arizona's Indigenous Communities. For paraprofessionals that don't wish to relocate to earn an undergraduate degree. PEAIC is a unique transfer program where participants are encouraged to continue teaching in their community and earn a degree online to become a certified teacher. To schedule a 1:1 Zoom meeting with the Native & Indigenous Student Recruitment Coordinator, click here. General Resources Lend a Hand Program - The Lend a Hand Program pays off high-cost car title loans up to $3,000 for Maricopa County Residents. The program is partnership between Arizona Community Foundation, MariSol Federal Credit Union, and Take Charge America. The goal of the program is to rescue residents struggling to pay off car title loans and help put them on a path to healthy credit and financial success. For more information click here. Home in Five Advantage - The Home in Five Advantage program helps low and moderate income homebuyers by offering a competitive loan interest rate with a non-repayable grant for down payment and closing costs. Additional assistance is also available to qualified U.S. Military personnel, veterans, teachers, first responders, and individuals with an annual income up to $31,450. For more information click here. Sesame Street Workshop, Little Children, Big Challenges: Incarceration. For more information click here. $3.00 Phoenix Zoo Opportunity and other museums for families who use EBT Card - For more information click here. Housing Resources for Individuals with past issues - Click here for more information. Pet related funding for victims of sexual and domestic violence. One time funding available for pet-related costs. For information call ACESDV at (602) 279-2980 or chat through www.acesdv.org. Free WiFi hotspots in Arizona as well as training, tech support and more. Google Maps included with directions to get to free WiFi spots. For more information click here. Marijuana Expungement Clinics - For more information click here.

Community Resources are provided to the community as a resource and are NOT endorsed by NATIVE HEALTH.

View All Upcoming Events

Community Events

2022 June 7-8 - Native American Fatherhood & Families Association, Families Learning Together Regional Seminar, Memphis, Tennessee. For more information click here. June 8 - South Mountain Community College Open Enrollment Day for American Indian Students. 9:00 am.-3:00 p.m. For new and continuing students to apply to SMCC or register for the Fall 2022 Semester. For more information contact Gerard at (602) 305-5643 or email him. June 11 - University of Arizona Cancer Center and Arizona Department of Health Services presents a FREE conference, "Beyond Cancer: Navigating Care" on Saturday, June 11, at Desert Willow Conference Center. Travel assistance available. Registration ends Friday, May 27. For more information or to register, click here. June 14 - South Mountain Community College Open Enrollment Day for American Indian Students. 9:00 am.-3:00 p.m. For new and continuing students to apply to SMCC or register for the Fall 2022 Semester. For more information contact Gerard at (602) 305-5643 or email him. June 14-15 - Indian Health Service, Health Promotion/Disease Prevention is hosting a FREE Cancer Prevention and Screening virtual seminar, "Collaborating Towards Cancer Free Communities: We All Have a Role." For health care providers, health care administrators, nurses, social workers, public health nurses, community health representatives, nutritionists, health educators and other interested individuals. For more information contact Alberta. June 14-15 - 48th Arizona Rural Health Conference, High Country Conference Center, Flagstaff. AZ Center for Rural Health, University of Arizona. For more information, click here. June 17 - Tribal Community Wellness and Awareness Conference, Ak-Chin Casino & Resort, Maricopa. For Tribal community members, including youth 12-17 years old (with parent/chaperone), parents, elders, Tribal agency staff. For more information, contact Julia at (520) 237-6127 or email her. June 17-18 - Four Corners Pow Wow 2022 - Father's Day Weekend. Location: 20 Road 2050 Aztec, New Mexico 87410. June 18 - Father's Day Festival at East Valley Institute of Technology, Culinary Arts Banquet Hall, Mesa. Hosted by Native American Fatherhood and Families Association. Free. 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Food, games, activities for fathers and their children. For more information email Valerie. June 20-24 - Mercy Care's 2022 Connections Conference: Connecting Our Paths to Wellness. Virtual. For more information click here. June 21 - Banner Alzheimer's "Supporting Tribal Caregivers" Native Americans and Alzheimer's disease toolkit training session. 8:30-11:00 a.m. For support professionals, educators, and community health workers helping caregivers of people with dementia. For more information call (602) 839-6918 or email them. June 21 - Maricopa County Elections and Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community's Poll Worker Training, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Paid training for individuals who reside in Maricopa County. For more information call Angela at (480) 362-6654. June 22-23 - Arizona Community Health Workers Association (AzCHOW)'s Annual Conference: The Beginning of the CHW/R Movement". Vee Quiva Hotel & Casino, Laveen. For more information: here. June 26-29 - National Institute for Native Leadership in Higher Education (NINLHE), University of North Carolina, Wilmington. For more information, please click here. July 2-3 - Standing Horse Route 66 Pow Wow. Winslow, Arizona. For more information call Erin at (928) 863-6316. July 14-15 - 7th Annual Rural Women's Health Symposium. Virtual. For more information click here. July 17-23 - NABI Nation. Footprint Center. For more information click here. June 17-18 - Four Corners Pow Wow 2022. 20 Road 2050, Aztec, New Mexico. July 18-22 NABI Educational Youth Summit. For more information click here. July 18-22 NABI Pool and Bracket Games. For more information click here. July 19-20 - 28th Statewide Child Abuse Prevention Conference. Hyatt Regency in Phoenix. For more information click here. July 25-29 - NATIVE HEALTH's Annual Indigenous Wellness Camp. Held at Mingus Mountain Camp. For Native American youth, ages 8-12. For more information email Amanda. July 26-28 - 2nd National Conference on American Indian and Alaska Native Injury and Violence Prevention, "Reconnect to Promote Health Equity and Advance Practice and Science." Free and open to the public. Virtual. For more information click here. July 28-31 - Association of American Indian Physicians Conference "Optimizing AI/AN Health: The Critical Role of Tribal Sovereignty for Improving Health Outcomes". Capital Hilton Hotel, Washington DC. For more information click here. August 6 - Jeddito Pow Wow, 7 miles southwest of Jeddito Chapter. For more information call Sharon Yazzie at (775) 750-4589. August 9-10 - NB3 Foundation Healthy Kids! Healthy Futures! Sandia Resort & Casino. August 17-19 - Arizona Housing Forum. Hosted by Arizona Housing Coalition and the Arizona Department of Housing. Scott Resort and Spa in Scottsdale. For more information click here. August 24-25 - Arizona Maternal and Infant Mortality Summit, "See Me Differently: How Mental Health and Substance Use Impact Maternal and Infant Mortality." Virtual. Arizona Department of Health Services. Free. For more information contact Clarke. August 25-27 - 2022 National Native Media Conference, Phoenix. For more information click here. September 4 - Louis Tewanima Footrace. For more information click here. September 29 - Arizona Health Equity Conference, "Connecting Communities in Research, Practice, Prevention and Policy". Virtual and in-person. For more information click here. October 1 - NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Children's Pageant. For more information or to register click here. October 6-8 - Association of American Indian Physician's 2022 Pre-Admission Workshop. For more information please click here. October 6-9 - Western Navajo Fair. For more information click October 8 - NATIVE HEALTH's Annual Open House and Health Fair. October 8 - Phoenix Indian Center's "Celebrating Our History, Honoring the People" Social Pow Wow and Gourd Dance. Steele Indian School Park. For more information call (602) 264-6768. October 8 - Native American Bar Association of Arizona's 13th Annual Seven Generations Award Dinner and Silent Auction. For more information click here. October 8 - Miss Indian Arizona Scholarship Program. Chandler Center for the Arts. 6:30 p.m. For more information click here. November 2-4 - "Fatherhood is Leadership" National Conference presented by Native American Fatherhood and Families Association. For more information click here. November 4 - 7th Annual Native American Women's Conference. Wild Horse Pass Resort and Casino, Phoenix. For more information click here. December 14-16 - 12th National First Nations Women's Health Conference. Hilton Hotel Cairns Queensland. For more information click here.

Community Events and Resources are provided to the community as a resource and are NOT endorsed by NATIVE HEALTH.

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