NATIVE HEALTH Newsletter Upcoming Events

Volume 18, Issue 3 - March 2024

Greetings! Spring is here and we're busy! March is a beautiful month and there's so much happening in the community. We just hosted our Tooth Fairy Gala and raised thousands of dollars for our dental programs. We are continuing to grow! Our renovations are beginning in our Dunlap Building near 23rd Avenue and Dunlap. The construction is expected to take approximately nine months and we're hoping we'll be open for services late 2024 or early next year! We will be adding additional services and programs and will continue to have medical, dental, and behavioral health. We've got some great things in the works! We are also in the permitting process with the City of Mesa for our Mesa expansion. We will be combining two buildings at our existing location into one building and will provide medical, dental, behavioral health, and some specialty services. We're super excited to bring these services to the east valley. We're hoping this program will be completed in fall of 2025. Keep watching for more updates and photos on the construction at both sites! March brings additional health observances including National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on March 20, National Social Worker Month, Dental Assistants Recognition Week, Dentists Day, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and much more! For more information on these recognitions and activities, keep an eye on our social media.

Spring Break is upon us! We're trying to make things easier for families and now have pediatric services at all locations. We are also accepting pediatric and adult walk-in visits as needed. We will soon be announcing our Indigenous Wellness Camp and will be scheduling Camp Physicals! Keep watching for more information. To schedule your appointment, please call (602) 279-5262.

NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank Desert Diamond Casino West Valley for their very generous donation. We are so grateful for their continued support which enables us to continue and expand our work and help the community. Thank you Desert Diamond Casino West Valley.

March also brings our Annual Prayer Walk, the Walk for the Land and the People. This Annual Walk brings out hundreds of walkers and runners to gather for a Blessing, enjoy the weather, meet new people, and practice mindfulness during the Walk. This year, like previous years, we will again have one Walk, from North Mountain to NATIVE HEALTH Central, due to continued South Mountain light rail construction. Participants will park at NATIVE HEALTH Central, take chartered buses to North Mountain (at 7 am), participate in a Blessing, and walk south to NATIVE HEALTH Central. A light Blue Corn Mush breakfast will be provided when walkers return to the site. Participants will also receive a t-shirt. For more information, or to register for this annual event, please click here.

NATIVE HEALTH Mesa continues to see unexpected need for food. We have now expanded the hours to make it more convenient for the community to stop by and pick up food bags. 

I had the pleasure of attending the Arizona Native Voting Roundtable hosted by the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona. I provided remarks about issues that affect urban Native American voters to Tribal Leaders and Representative Joe Morelle, the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Administration.

NATIVE HEALTH Central is a National Voter Registration Act site. We can assist you in registering to vote or updating your voter registration. We are also available to attend community events and assist with voter registration. If you would like more info, please contact us. If it is more convenient, you may also click here to register to vote. March 8 is the last day to request an early ballot in the Presidential Preference Election, March 12 is the last day to mail back your ballot, and March 19, is Election Day for the Presidential Preference Election. Take a minute, and let your voice be heard! It is important and shapes the future.

NATIVE HEALTH continues to function with pride, passion, and purpose to serve the community and address the needs. I hope you take time to read the newsletter and keep up on our social media for upcoming events. We post daily with a lot of community events and announcements. Please visit our website and Facebook to learn about our exciting events!  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. We are here to support you and your family and hope you will take advantage of the programs offered by NATIVE HEALTH. Please stop by and say hello to NATIVE HEALTH staff at some of the community events. We look forward to seeing you. We are grateful for you. We wish you and your family a happy spring and Easter. Until next month, Walter Murillo Chief Executive Officer

Contact Information

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. Walk-in Service Available 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 14010 or 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 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 Christopher at (602) 279-5262 x 12010 or email him.

Services: Substance Abuse Treatment Program Domestic Violence Offender Group for Men Case Management services Domestic Violence Victim Advocate Support  Substance Abuse and Suicide Prevention support Other services, for ages 6+ Individual, family and group counseling Psychiatry

Veterans Employment Services Available on Thursdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more information call (602) 279-5262 x 11048. Arizona Department of Economic Security - Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility - Services are available at NATIVE HEALTH Central and are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Arizona Department of Economic Security - ARIZONA@WORK. ARIZONA@WORK background friendly employment assistance is available Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please call (602) 279-5262, x 11048.

NATIVE HEALTH Mesa 777 West Southern Avenue, Building C, Suite 301 Mesa, Arizona 85210 P (602) 279-5262 Visit Website

Medical Services: Building E Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Same day appointments available. Walk-in Service 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 (602) 279-5262. 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 (602) 279-5262 x 22004 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, Monday-Friday, Building B, south side. 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.

Arizona@Work 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Tuesdays. Assistance with soft skills, resumes, job interviews, and much more. They can help individuals with background issues.

NHW Community Health Center 2423 W. Dunlap, Suite 140 Phoenix, Arizona 85021 P (602) 279-5262 F (602) 279-5361 Visit Website

Medical Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Walk-in Service Available Virtual Health Care: 8:00 a.m.-7:00. p.m. Dental Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Dental emergency walk-ins, first come, first served For an appointment please contact Virgina at (602) 279-5262 x 14040 or email her. 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) 279-5262. 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 Josephina at (602) 279-5262 x 32002 or her. Services: Individual and family counseling Tele-Psychiatry on site

NATIVE HEALTH - Photos from February

NATIVE HEALTH received a large donation of amazing toys from Bank of America's Native American Professional Network. We thank Bank of America's Native American Professional Network for their continued support and generosity. NATIVE HEALTH thanks the Rotary 100's Families Giving Back Program for providing hundreds of toiletry bags for the sober living crisis trafficking victims. NATIVE HEALTH received very generous donations from Anita of AREA Farms of apples, herbs, turnips and cherry tomatoes. These produce bags were distributed at all three NATIVE HEALTH clinical locations. Anita brings donations twice monthly through Purchasing Local Arizona through Local First and Pinnacle Prevention.

NATIVE HEALTH hosted a Second Chance Job Fair through our partnership with Arizona Department of Economic Security's Arizona @ Work. They are on site at NATIVE HEALTH Central and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. Thank you to Betsy Spohn, who made beautiful, useful totes and baby blankets. These items will be distributed through our clinics and are needed and appreciated. Thank you, Betsy, for your hard work and dedication. NATIVE HEALTH hosted another successful, fun, and engaging Elder Painting Class. This month's class participants learned about contemporary desert scenes taught by Esther Nystrom of Bitterwater Designs. This program is funded by Maricopa County Public Health.

Socks, socks, and more socks! The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc.; an educational sorority, Zeta Theta Chapter, donated hundreds of pairs of socks to NATIVE HEALTH's medical clinics. These warm, comforting, and soft socks are appreciated and will be used by many. Thank you, National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Zeta Theta Chapter, for thinking of NATIVE HEALTH and the community we serve. NATIVE HEALTH staff presented at Mesa Public Schools’ Native American Education Program teaching the students about Blue Corn Mush. There’s education and a yummy food demo! February's Read It and Eat (Tea with the Tooth Fairy) was a huge success at NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. Participants loved taking photos with Miss Olivia (aka The Tooth Fairy)! A great time was had by all. Thank you Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust for supporting this program.

NATIVE HEALTH staff attended Mesa Public Schools' Office of Navajo Nation and Scholarship Office's program. NATIVE HEALTH would again like to thank Debbie Hamilton for donating this month's beautiful, handmade quilt, Garden Patch. Each month, Debbie spends countless hours designing and sewing these quilts. They are then given to a child in NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visit Program. They are gorgeous and made with love! Thank you, Debbie Hamilton, for making a difference. Miss Olivia presented at Chandler Unified School District’s Indigenous Education Program. She discussed the Medicine Wheel and everyone participated in a Medicine Wheel beading activity.

NATIVE HEALTH attended the Annual Choctaw Meeting at Vee Quiva Casino at Gila River for the Annual Choctaw Meeting. They had over 550 people attend this great event. Wellbearto takes an annual photo with their Chief and Assistant Chief. This year was no different and Wellbearto posed with Chief Gary Batton (r) and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. (l). NATIVE HEALTH hosted a red dress Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) beading class taught by Esther Nystrom of Bitterwater Designs. NATIVE HEALTH Central's Read It and Eat's Tea with the Tooth Fairy included mini manicures, tea sandwiches, photos with Miss Olivia, tooth pillow and wand-making crafts, dental education, and story time.

Wellbearto's Travels

Wellbearto relaxes by taking ceramic classes at Phoenix Center for the Arts. He gets so excited when he sees the large reduction kiln operating! Wellbearto's favorite thing to do is check the items that came out of the kiln and find his beautiful pieces!

Wellbearto is still learning how to throw. He is currently using four pounds of clay and is hopeful he can increase the clay to make larger bowls. Wellbearto was practicing trimming. He loves seeing all of the other student's work. There are some incredibly talented ceramicists. Test tiles! This is how Wellbearto learns about glaze combinations. He gazes lovingly at the many options. It's always a hard choice and you never know how glaze will come out!

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 Tooth Fairy Gala

We did it!! In recognition of the National Children's Dental Health Month and the Random Act of Kindness Day NATIVE HEALTH hosted the inaugural Tooth Fairy Gala on February 17. The event was held at the Arizona Science Center and was a magical evening that could not have happened without the tremendous support of our sponsors, underwriters, staff, talented entertainers, artists, and community members! We are so thankful for everyone and all our sponsors that pledged their support, the artists and organizations that shared your talents with us, and all those that partook in the night’s festivities. Special thanks to Kristopher Dosela and the Chi'Chino Spirit of the O'odham Dance Group for the Opening Prayer and Land Acknowledgment as well as the special gift for our guest of honor Dr. George Blue Spruce. Guests participated in an honorary round dance to celebrate the tremendous work of the visionary and dedication of Dr. Blue Spruce.  Through Dr. Blue Spruce's work as the first Native American Dentist and continued leader in health career development we share a common goal of health equity that is important to us at NATIVE HEALTH. The Tooth Fairy Gala provided the platform to highlight the NH dental program and fundraise to raise the bar for dental outreach and accessible and equitable services.

NATIVE HEALTH Dental Champion Award Recipient, Dr. George Blue Spruce Jr., DDS, MPH. He was the first American Indian to graduate from dental school.  Beautiful table decorations! Thank you to Brooke Betsuie, for designing this year's gorgeous Tooth Fairy!

Thank you, Randy Kemp and Sydney Marian for delighting us with beautiful music throughout the evening. Chi'Chino Spirit O'odham Dance Group led our guests in an Honor Round Dance

NATIVE HEALTH's Pediatric Dental Services

Groovy Teeth for Groovy Kids by Tarek Kaakani, DMD Have you ever looked in the mirror at the tops of your teeth and it looks like you have a miniature Grand Canyon? Well, those are natural grooves in the teeth. Each person has their own shapes and groovy pattern. Some people’s grooves are super deep, and some are very shallow. While these grooves are unique to every person, they also are unique in that they hold lots of the things we eat and drink. If you’re eating Flaming Hot Cheetos each day, your grooves may be a little more flaming hot than a person that is eating lots of Broccoli. Either way, we don’t want food to harbor in there and brushing may not get it all out of those tiny grooves. That’s where dental sealants come into play. Dental sealants are a thin, liquid protective coating placed within those grooves. They are non-invasive, easy to apply, and a great introduction to procedural dentistry. Around the ages of 6-13, we start to get our first and second molars – that’s a great time to consider doing dental sealants. This means we can go home, eat whatever food and not worry about icky things getting trapped in our grooves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mention that sealants protect against 80% of cavities in the first two years and 50% cavities up to 4 years. An easy job for a great outcome. Make sure that if you have kids with their adult molars coming in, get them some sealants! Whether at a school dental program or a local dentist/clinic, they are easy to place and can be done by any trained individual. Less cavities means happier kiddos – let’s keep them groovy! NATIVE HEALTH has two dental clinics, NATIVE HEALTH Central and NHW Community Health Center and provides pediatric and adult dental services. For more info, or to make an appointment, please call (602) 279-5262.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Awareness Month. "Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States, and high rates are seen in the American Indian and Alaska Native people compared to non-Hispanic White people states the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet it is preventable thanks to screening. Here are two reasons why getting checked matters: *Screening can find the warning signs of colon and rectal cancer, letting doctors take action to prevent the disease. *Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective. Current guidelines recommend screening to begin at age 45. People at increased risk should talk with their medical provider about screening and testing. Ask your medical provider about screening, as your ethnicity, lifestyle, and family history will impact when you should get checked." Information from the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. There are different colorectal screening options. The following types of tests are used to screen for colorectal cancer: • Stool tests. • Sigmoidoscopy. • Colonoscopy. • Virtual colonoscopy. Ask your medical provider which test is right for you. NATIVE HEALTH's medical providers can assist you in the right decision for you. They can also refer you out for additional tests if needed. For more information, please call NATIVE HEALTH's Medical Department at (602) 279-5262.

National Native HIW/AIDS Awareness Day - March 20

National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is Wednesday, March 20, 2024!   At NATIVE HEALTH, we encourage you to join the conversation to #StopHIVTogether. NATIVE HEALTH is committed in doing our part to stop the spread of HIV in our communities. We can accomplish this by creating a community that promotes awareness, understanding, and acceptance. One way to STOP HIV Together is to #knowyourstatus. Knowing your status is key in protecting yourself and your partner(s). The CDC recommends everyone between the ages of 13-64 be tested for HIV at least once. You will want to get tested more often if you are at a higher risk for contracting HIV. Join us on Wednesday, March 20, at NATIVE HEALTH Central and NATIVE HEALTH Mesa. We are providing FREE HIV testing. Everyone who completes an HIV test will receive a FREE lunch from 11 am-3 pm. The first ten people at each site will also receive a $5 gift card. Be sure to check out NATIVE HEALTH's social media pages leading up to March 20 for more information and education about HIV. For more info, please contact Mily.

NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden

We've been busy! The Traditional Garden is looking beautiful with all kinds of traditional and healthy produce! In February, NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden Coordinator taught NATIVE HEALTH's Domestic Violence Healing Circle participants about healing through gardening, traditional gardening techniques and ways to connect to our foods. The Indigenous Garden Educator shared gardening techniques and ways to spiritually reconnect with the land, water, sun, and seeds at Whitman Elementary, Ishikawa Elementary, and Creighton Academy. There were additional programs at NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Retreat and a DIY Flower Self Power Vase class in the Traditional Garden!

 If you’re looking to get out and get active, please join us on Saturday, March 9, 8-10 am, for the Second Saturday Garden Work Day at the Traditional Garden. No RSVP is necessary and all are welcome. Please park at the 19th Avenue/Camelback Park and Ride. March 15 will be a virtual food demo over Strawberry Vinaigrette Chicken Salad from 11am-noon. At the end of the month will be a Garden Workshop creating Totem poles and signs for the Traditional Garden. This event will be at 10 am. For more info, please contact Sierra.

What to plant in March:  You can plant these veggies all month: Amaranth, basil, beans, chichiquelite, chile, corn, cotton, cowpea, cucumber, Devil's Claw, eggplant, gourd, herbs, melon, sorghum, summer and winter squash, sunflower, tobacco (plants), tomatillo and watermelon. Plant starts: Chiles/pepper, eggplant, and tomato 

Presenting information to the Domestic Violence Healing Circle participants. Teaching youth and families at a local school. Gorgeous broccoli from the Traditional Garden.

Another great harvest from the Traditional Garden. Bank of American’s Native American Professional Network (NAPN) and other community members attended the Second Saturday Traditional Garden Workday and harvested broccoli, rainbow chard, cilantro, cabbage, lettuce, arugula, carrots, and peas. Volunteers also pulled weeds, built a trellis, planted flowers, and assisted with other garden tasks. NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden hosted HealthEquity's Purple with Purpose. This group supports organizations that connect health in communities. Their hard working group harvested cilantro, red lettuce, cauliflower, chard, peas, carrots, broccoli, parsley, dill, and arugula. They also watered and weeded!

NATIVE HEALTH's LAUNCH Program

Nurturing Family Well-being: Explore the Possibilities with LAUNCH We are thrilled to share exciting news – the LAUNCH Program is now enrolling families! The LAUNCH Program aims to empower families with the tools and resources needed for a healthy start in life. Whether you’re a new parent or have multiple children, LAUNCH is designed to support families at every stage of their journey. What is the LAUNCH Program? The LAUNCH Program is a home visiting initiative aimed at promoting the wellness of young children and their families made possible through the Project LAUNCH (Linking Actions for Unmet Needs in Children’s Health) grant. The purpose of the home visiting program is to enhance the well-being of young children, from birth to 8 years of age, by addressing various aspects of their development, ultimately preparing them to thrive in school. The LAUNCH Program is designed to enhance the capabilities of parents and caregivers by equipping them with the skills to nurture healthy social and emotional development in young children. Key Highlights: 1.      Parenting Support and Education: ·         Receive guidance on effective parenting techniques. ·         Access educational resources to enhance your parenting skills. 2.      Child Development Services: ·         Monitor and support your child’s developmental milestones. ·         Learn age-appropriate activities to stimulate your child’s growth. 3.      Community Engagement: ·         Connect with other families in the program through monthly Group Connections. Why Enroll?    Tailored Support: LAUNCH offers tailored support, recognizing the uniqueness of each family’s needs and challenges.      Empowerment: Gain the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about your family’s health and well-being. The March Group Connection is Positive Language, with the theme being Responsible Decision Making, for 5-8 year olds, on Friday, March 29, from 3-5 pm. For more info, or to register, click here.

NATIVE HEALTH's Maternal Child Health Programs are hosting another Virtual Positive Indian Parenting program for Fast Track Classes, Saturday, March 16, and Saturday, March 23, from 8 am-noon, via Zoom. Positive Indian Parenting will satisfy court requirements. To register, click here. Spread the Joy of Wellness! Do you know a family in need of support and guidance? Share the news about the LAUNCH Program with friends and family. Together, let’s build a healthier and happier community! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to embark on a journey to lasting well-being. Join the LAUNCH Program today! How to Enroll: Contact the Maternal Child Health Program Coordinator, Sheena Fowler, by calling (602) 279-5262, x 23002 or email: [email protected].

NATIVE HEALTH's Brain Injury Awareness Month

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. This month we bring awareness to Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) which aren’t always noticeable. Brain injuries can be complicated to diagnose. If you are hit in the head, fall and hit your head, are shaken vigorously, etc, this can result in brain trauma. It is always best to go to the emergency room post injury to check for injury. Brain injuries can present as changes in personality, or a headache, to seizures, brain bleeds and death. If you or a loved one may have these types of injuries, seek medical attention. All people can experience abuse, men women, LGBTQ, non-binary, and you have a right to ask for support. If you see something, say something and always remember, abuse is much more than physical violence. If you are being abused, ask for help. NATIVE HEALTH's Domestic Violence Prevention Case Manager, Madara, can assist with mobile advocacy, immediate, intermediate and long-term needs. You can reach her at (602) 279-5262 x 12012 or email her at [email protected]. Other resources: National domestic violence hotline: 1-800-799-7233, Brian injury Association of America: 1-800-444-6443, AZ coalition to end Sexual and domestic violence: 602-279-2900.

NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Program

Did you know NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness programs include the Wellness Warriors Program, Diabetes Counseling and Education, and the Traditional Garden Program? The Indigenous Wellness program provides culturally relevant education on prevention and promotion of holistic wellness for Indigenous peoples in Maricopa County through a wide variety of classes and events. In February, the Indigenous Wellness Program hosted an Indigenous Wellness Retreat (for adults). Participants learned about Indigenous gardening, healthy traditional foods, and healthy habits. Guest speakers provided motivational speeches, traditional dances, and Native American stories. Indigenous Wellness also continued to host the Planning for a Healthy Year Food Demonstration series. Last month, participants learned about healthy coping skills to overcome emotional eating while participating in a food demonstration on Savory Squash Soup. Later in the month, participants sampled a caramelized seed mix while learning how to maintain their motivation.

This month, the Indigenous Wellness Program will be continuing the Planning for a Healthy Year, with a Veggie Stir Fry Food Demonstration on Wednesday, March 13, and Chicken Veggie Wrap demo on March 27. For more info, or to register, click here. The Indigenous Wellness Program staff visited Whitman elementary to present on healthy habit, stress, and coping using the Medicine Basket and discussed spiritual reconnection to the land, water, sun, and seeds. Staff also visited Ishikawa Elementary where students practiced physical activity through traditional Native American games from the Navajo and Apache Tribes. Children explored Traditional Gardening and how foods we grow help us to heal. Staff also attended Creighton Academy for their Indigenous Family Night.

The Wellness Warriors Program continued the Walk with Your Ancestors Series. In February, participants walked both Indian Steele Park and Riverview Park while enjoying delicious indigenous snacks such as Blue Corn Parfait. Participants also learned more about how walking was, and is still important to Native American Tribes, especially those in the valley. The March Walk With Your Ancestors Walks will take place on Saturday, March 9, at Steele Indian School Park, and Saturday, March 23, at Mesa Riverview Park, both at 10 am. For more info, or to register, please click here.  For more info, contact Geriah at [email protected] to register today!

NATIVE HEALTH's WIC

Did you know? Americans throw away billions of pounds of foods each year, That amount does not include food that is uneaten at the grocery store or the crops that are left in farmers’ fields. This year’s theme for National Nutrition Month is "Beyond the Table" and encourages us to think about how our food and drink choices can make a difference now, and in the future. Healthy choices go beyond what we eat and drink at mealtimes and include our meals on the go, snacks, eating out with friends, and where foods are grown and how they are prepared. Furthermore, our food choices impact the health of our planet. Here are some things you can do to reduce food waste: · Plan meals based on the foods you already have on hand. Look in your pantry, freezer, and refrigerator for foods that need to be used up and buy only the amount of perishable foods that can be eaten or frozen within a few days. · Get creative with leftovers. Make soups, salads, or sandwiches with leftover veggies and cooked meats. · Master the shelf life of foods. “Use by”, “Best By”, and "Best Before" dates are on some foods, such as mustard and salad dressing. These usually do not need to be refrigerated until opened and can be safe to eat as long as they have been stored properly. Meat and dairy products have a “Sell by” date and it is possible that these foods may be used a few days after that date, as long as they were stored at the correct temperature. · Practice good food safety. Eat leftovers within 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3-4 months. Place foods that may spoil quickly in the front of the refrigerator and wash produce before serving. Sun-Dried Tomato-Olive Hummus Recipe · 2, 15-ounce cans chickpeas, drained · 1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt · ¼ cup lemon juice · 2 tablespoons olive oil · 2 cloves garlic, chopped · 1 teaspoon cumin · ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil) · ½ cup slice kalamata olives · 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley Combine chickpeas, yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and cumin until smooth. Stir in tomatoes, olives, and cilantro. Refrigerate for 1 hour or longer to allow flavors to blend and develop. Serve with fresh vegetables, whole grain crackers, or whole wheat pita bread. Interested in applying for WIC? If you are eligible to receive WIC or are a current WIC participant, you will receive the following including a cash value benefit for fruits and vegetables: · Monthly food benefits that can be used at local grocery stores · Nutrition education · Breastfeeding support · Help finding health care and other community services. Fruits and Vegetables Cash Value Benefits: · Exclusively and Mostly Breastfeeding Women: $52 · Pregnant, Postpartum (non-breastfeeding), and Limited Breastfeeding Women: $47 · Infant: $4 at 9 months of age (must be requested) · Children: $26 To learn more about WIC and how you can apply, complete the online pre-application at https://itcawic.itcastars.net/apply or call (800) 470-5930 to speak with a WIC team member. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Native Talk Arizona

Native Talk Arizona airs Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. on KRDP 90.7 FM (and kicks off five hours of Indigenous Talk Radio on Wednesday evenings)! Native Talk Arizona, is available as a podcast on YouTube Podcasts, iTunes Podcasts, and Spotify.

February guests included: Jolyana Begay-Kroupa | CEO of the Phoenix Indian Center Jaynie Parrish | Executive director and founder of Arizona Native Vote Ethan Tsosie and Navi Ho | Phoenix Indian Center’s Two Spirit Powwow Dawn Manuelito | founder and CEO of Manuelito Health and Wellness Systems, LLC Christine Tuttle | Outreach and Community Engagement Librarian at the Arizona Talking Book Library Jonessa Reid | Sash Belt Weaver Eugenia Charles-Newton, Navajo Nation Council Delegate  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.

NATIVE HEALTH - AHCCCS Application Assistance

With illness spreading throughout flu season make sure you have your AHCCCS coverage up to date!! AHCCCS has been sending out letters, texting, and emailing about checking your AHCCCS coverage and updating your information. If you do not know the status of your AHCCCS health insurance, have no insurance, or need general information for AHCCCS, please contact NATIVE HEALTH's Patient Enrollment Specialists. They can assist with an AHCCCS application, renewal, report a change or even providing documents. They can also help with Cash (TANF) and Nutrition Assistance (SNAP). If you believe you are ineligible for AHCCCS or have private insurance that does not cover certain services, we can also help you apply for NATIVE HEALTH's Discount Program which provides a discount on medical, dental, labs, and behavioral health services in our clinics. They can also assist with Kid's Care Enrollment.

You may contact NATIVE HEALTH's Patient Enrollment Specialists for an appointment, day, night, or weekends (via phone or Zoom) or walk-in. There are friendly and helpful Patient Enrollment Specialists at all three NATIVE HEALTH clinical locations. Another option to update or renew information is online at: Health-e-Arizona(healthearizonaplus.gov).  Did you know there’s a new feature on Health-e-Arizona plus which is a virtual assistant option named SAM? You can report a change in contact information without ever logging in!! You will also be able to sign up for text alerts for the status or renewal reminders through the SAM option as well. If you have been contacted by AHCCCS it is important to respond. If you are on AHCCCS, you might have received a letter, text, email, or phone call from Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) or AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid) asking you to verify and update your address, phone number, email, etc. for your eligibility renewal. After you update your information. you will be contacted by AHCCCS about your renewal. Your letter will either inform you of your eligibility status and tell you now response is needed, or ask for additional information. Please make sure you respond in a timely manner. Again, you have multiple options to check and update your information:  NATIVE HEALTH's Patient Enrollment Specialists can assist you in person, on the phone, or via Zoom, to help you update your information. You can also make an in-person appointment, day, evening, or weekends, whatever is convenient for you. You can also walk into any NATIVE HEALTH location. You can find additional information on NATIVE HEALTH's website, www.nativehealthphoenix.org, under the "Community" tab. Click on the Medicaid/AHCCCS pull down. Check the AHCCCS website at www.healthearizonaplus.gov (Health-E-Arizona) Call AHCCCS at 1-855-432-7587.  NATIVE HEALTH Central has Arizona Department of Economic Security ON SITE, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. This service is first come, first served.

If you need assistance or you want to apply for benefits with one of our PES' please contact us. PES assistance is free to the public and you do not have to be a registered patient for assistance. Please contact Andrell Williams at (602) 279-5262, x 21005 or email her for additional information regarding applying for AHCCCS or any other related questions.

Healthy Relationships

Let's talk about healthy relationships. We know that an unhealthy relationship is a struggle of power and control that creates a cycle of abuse, followed by a honeymoon phase. What does a healthy relationship look like when we must confront disappointment, conflict, hurt feelings? A healthy relationship values each other's thoughts and feelings, is supportive of each other's goals and includes respect for each other's space. Beyond honesty, faithfulness, and transparency, we need to also respect boundaries and learn to communicate. Feeling free to express feelings and being met with validation instead of hostility promotes bonding and resolutions. It leads to mutual respect, honesty, and compromise. Fighting fair, means you can disagree about a topic without throwing other topics in, belittling your partner, or name calling. Restating what your partner ssays lets them know they are being heard so you can problem solve together. We can learn the tools to create healthy relationships and we can also model healthy relationships to our children. It is important for our children to understand relationships with friends, family, teachers, and boyfriends, or girlfriends, etc. Abusive behavior can be present in any relationship and the more you know, the quicker you can recognize the signs. Remember, abuse is not traditional. Madara Winters, RN, BSN, is NATIVE HEALTH's Domestic Violence Prevention Case Manager. You can reach her at (602) 279-5262 x 12012 or email her.

Want to get involved and help?

A 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!

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Community Resources

Scholarships Indigenous Youth Media Workshop held at Northern Arizona University, June 19-29. Workshop participants will live in NAU's residence halls and work in the School of Communication's Media Innovation Center newsroom and HD television studio. Workshop open for Indigenous youth in grades 8-12, with preference given to Native American high school juniors and seniors. For more info, click here. March 15 Deadline - Native American Science and Engineering Summer Program at UA for high school students. June 9-15. For more info, click here. April 1 Deadline - Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative's Youth Summit. July 15-23 at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. All travel and lodging expenses are covered for accepted applicants. For more info, click here. April 26 Deadline - American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association & Hospitality Scholarship. For more info, click here. May 17 Deadline - Morris K. Udall and John S. McCain III Native American Graduate Fellowship in Tribal Policy. For more info, click here. June 15 - Friends of Hubbell 2024 Native American Scholarships. For junior or senior students showing the need to graduate or graduate students. For more info, click here. College Horizons - For more info on the 2024 program dates and host sites - click here. Tribal Resources Arizona Department of Economic Security's Office of Tribal Relations - Link for any Tribal member in Arizona who needs assistance, click 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. FREE tuition for undergraduate students from Arizona's 22 Federally recognized tribes who are studying on the main campus of University of Arizona in Tucson. For more information click here. 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). Veterans Benefits Administration - VA makes it easier to buy a home on Tribal land through the Native American Direct Loan. For more information click here.

General Resources The Arizona Smokers’ HelpLine (ASHLine) offers free help to quit commercial tobacco through the American Indian Commercial Tobacco Program. They connect commercial tobacco users with coaches and resources for – and from – Native American communities. Call 1-855-5AI-QUIT or sign up at AIQUITLine.org   Are you considering a graduate program in public health? Join the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health for an information session to learn more about our campus, online, and hybrid programs!  Information sessions are held virtually every other week, and we invite you to join us to learn about our graduate degree programs. We hope to see you there! Dates and links to register: https://publichealth.arizona.edu/graduate-students/admissions/events Banner University Medical Center is participating in an international study to see if a blood clotting drug, given soon after arrival in the emergency department, can improve survival. Bleeding out is the most common cause of preventable death after injury. Please join our virtual community forum discussing the Trauma And Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (TAP) Trial. For more info, click here. Phoenix Art Museum now offers free admission daily to all Maricopa County Community College District students with an active ID. This program is called MC3 @ PAM. This also includes admission into special-engagement exhibitions. Phoenix Art Museum is located at 1625 N. Central Avenue, in Phoenix. For more information, click here. 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. Southwest Human Development's Helpline is available at 877-705-KIDS. This free helping is for Arizona parents, caregivers, and professionals with questions or concerns about children ages birth to five.

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

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Community Events

2024 March 9 - 2nd Annual Read on Mesa Literacy Summit, 11 am-4 pm, downtown Mesa, 1 N. Macdonald, Mesa. For more info, contact Lisa. March 9 - Mesa Community College's 2024 Thunderbird Pow Wow, Mesa Community College, 1833 W. Southern Avenue, Mesa. For more info, email them. March 12-13 - Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care's 2024 Tribal Health Literacy Summit: Navigating Pandemics Together: Empower-Learn-Thrive. Desert Willow Conference Center. For more info, or to register, click here. March 15 - Westwood 18th Annual Pow Wow, 945 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa. For more info contact Kristen at (480) 472-4660 or via email. March 15-17 - Mul-Chu-Tha Fair and Rodeo. Gila River Indian Community. For more info, click here. March 21-22 - Maricopa County Veterans StandDown. Held at the Arizona State Fairgrounds at McDowell and 19th Avenue. For more info, click here. March 30 - Phoenix Indian Medical Center's Spring Into Health Kids Fair, 10 am-2 pm, at Phoenix Indian Medical Center, 4212 N. 16th Street, Phoenix. For more info, contact Roberta. March 30 - NATIVE HEALTH's Annual Prayer Walk, FREE. NATIVE HEALTH Central, 7 am. Bus to North Mountain, walk back to NATIVE HEALTH Central, and free Blue Corn Mush Breakfast after the Walk. For more info, or to register click here. April 5-6, Piipaash Matasheevm at the Lehi Gathering Area, 3221 N. Stapley Road, in Mesa. For more info, contact Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community at (480) 362-7465. April 6 - Mesa Community College's Youth Mentorship Gourd Dance. Mesa Community College. April 7-10 - 42nd Annual Protecting Our Children Conference. Seattle and virtual options. For more info, click here. April 10-12 - Arizona Alliance of Community Health Center's Annual Conference. Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Parkway. For more info, or to register, click here. April 11-12 - U.S. Indigenous Data Sovereignty & Governance Summit 2024, "Building Action and Power" Summit. Casino Del Sol in Tucson. For more info, click here. April 12 and 13 - American Indian Disability Summit. April 12 - American Indian Disability Summit and April 13 - American Indian Youth Disability Summit. For more info, click here. April 13 - 161st Annual Five Tribes Treaty of Peace Celebration. For more info contact Veronica at (520) 430-4780. April 15-18 - 2024 Tribal Self-Governance Conference. Self-Governance Communication and Education Tribal Consortium. Wild Horse Pass Resort, Chandler. For more info, click here. April 17-18 - Arizona Coalition for Military Families Statewide Symposium. Desert Willow Conference Center. Fee. Scholarships are available. For more info, click here. April 19, 20, 21 - ASU Pow Wow, ASU Tempe. For more information, click here. April 26-27 - Association of American Indian Physician's 30th Annual Cross Cultural Medicine Workshop, Albuquerque, New Mexico. For more info, click here. April 27 - 2024 Arizona Alzheimer's Consortium Public Conference. ASU Memorial Union, Tempe. FREE. 8 am-1 pm. For more info, click here. May 8 - State-Tribal Epidemiology Summit, held at Creighton University. For more info, click here. May 22-23 - Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women's 10th Annual Tribal Leaders Summit. Free. For more info, click here. July 22-24 - NABI Nation Basketball Invitational and College and Career Fair. For more info, click here. July 23 - Native Power Building Summit hosted by Advance Native Political Leadership. Camelback Inn Resort and Spa, Scottsdale. For more info, or to register, 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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