NATIVE HEALTH Newsletter
Upcoming Events
Volume 18, Issue 5 - May 2024
Greetings!
Happy May and Mother's Day! We have been busy in the community. April brought a lot of community events, cultural classes, Traditional Garden programs, and much, much more!

As you know from my monthly letters, we're growing and in need of dedicated community members to help guide our way. If you are interested in being a member of our Board of Directors, please consider applying. There is a monthly time commitment, but you can make a difference in the direction of NATIVE HEALTH. For more information, please contact Cherie.

Time flies so quickly! School is almost out and it's time to start thinking about back to school. NATIVE HEALTH is again providing free backpacks and school supplies for children receiving school or camp physicals, or AIA physicals, at any NATIVE HEALTH clinical location, at any time, with any NATIVE HEALTH Medical Provider.


As I've mentioned, we are again hosting our annual Indigenous Wellness Camp in July at Emmanuel Pines in Prescott. This is for Indigenous youth, ages 9-13. They have many great things planned and this year, with the help of many donors, there is NO COST! For more information, please contact Gabby.

Physical activity is important for all ages. One of our awesome providers, Dr. Jennifer Veaco, was interviewed for the Arizona Republic article "Volleyball for Native Silver Athletes". To view the article, click here.





NATIVE HEALTH is collaborating with the American Indian Health AHEC and will be hosting Native SCOPE beginning in June. This program is for high school students interested in pursuing a healthcare career. This program is FREE and will begin Wednesday, June 12, through Wednesday, July 31, and will meet on Wednesdays, from 10 am-1 pm at NATIVE HEALTH Central. There will be weekly programs, field trips, and exciting hands-on activities including suturing and dissection. Meet other healthcare professionals and explore different career paths. This program will provide resources and education for students to further their healthcare interests. Lunch and bus passes will be available for participating students.

For more information, or to enroll your child, please contact Lanasha.


NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank everyone that supported us through Arizona Gives Day donations. We are thankful to be part of a generous and caring community.

If you weren't able to give, Native Nonprofit Day is May 17 and this is another opportunity to support our work. NATIVE HEALTH is participating this year. If you are able, please consider supporting our work with the urban, Indigenous community. You can make a difference and support the many programs.

For more information, or to give, please click here.
NATIVE HEALTH has been the lucky recipient of tepary beans, Blue Cornmeal and other products from Ramona Farms via a grant from Purchase Local Arizona from Ramona Farms.

Purchase Local Arizona (PLAZ) is a local food purchasing program administered by Pinnacle Prevention and the Arizona Department of Economic Security. 
The program is funded by USDA’s Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA).

Purchase Local Arizona supports Arizona farmers, ranches, and food producers, prioritizing those from socially disadvantaged groups; and distributes fresh nutritious foods to underserved communities across Arizona.

NATIVE HEALTH will be distributing the Ramona Farms products in our Urban Native American Senior Food Boxes and at our monthly Read It and Eat programs.

Thank you, Ramona Farms and Purchase Local Arizona, for supporting NATIVE HEALTH and the community we serve.


Progress is being made on our new building at 8800 N. 22nd Avenue. The walls are going up, electrical is being installed and we're right on track! We continue to post photos on our website. Keep watching for more details about the services, programs, and opening information.

For more information, or to view the photos, click here.
We are only SIX months away from election day! Are you registered to vote yet?

Over 1.5 million Native people are eligible to vote but most remain unregistered.

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.

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 Mother's Day!

Until next month,
Walter Murillo
Chief Executive Officer
Contact Information
4041 North Central Avenue, Building C
Phoenix, Arizona 85012
P (602) 279-5262
F (602) 279-5390
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.
777 West Southern Avenue, Building C, Suite 301
Mesa, Arizona 85210
P (602) 279-5262
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.
2423 W. Dunlap, Suite 140
Phoenix, Arizona 85021
P (602) 279-5262
F (602) 279-5361
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 April
NATIVE HEALTH's Domestic Violence Program hosted a butterfly painting class and discussed domestic violence issues and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples.
NATIVE HEALTH hosted another community beading class taught by Esther Nystrom of Bitterwater Designs.
Thank you to Debbie Hamilton for her continued support of NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Program through her monthly donation of beautiful handmade quilts. This month's quilt is "Peanut Butter and Jelly: and it's beautiful. Debbie spends countless hours each month designing, cutting, and sewing a quilt that is given to a child in NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Program.
NATIVE HEALTH hosted another Elder Painting Class. Participants love meeting others and trying their hand at painting. This program was supported by Maricopa County Public Health.
NATIVE HEALTH staff attended the Pascua Yaqui Tribe's El Tour de Walupe and provided a variety of activities to the community.
NATIVE HEALTH grew tomato plants and distributed them to NATIVE HEALTH's Urban Native American Senior Food Box recipients. The tomato seeds were donated by Native Seeds Search.
NATIVE HEALTH staff attended Madison School District's American Indian Program and provided a Blue Corn Mush food demonstration and education.
NATIVE HEALTH would like to thank Suzanne of the Administrative Office of the Courts and the Supreme Court of Arizona for organizing a wonderful sock drive! Suzanne dropped off hundreds of pairs of new, beautiful, cushy socks! These will be distributed to the patients and clients that NATIVE HEALTH serves.
NATIVE HEALTH received a generous donation of zucchini and squash from Anita of AREA Farms. The vegetables were distributed to all NATIVE HEALTH clinical locations. NATIVE HEALTH appreciates Anita's continued support of fresh, healthy vegetables.
NATIVE HEALTH staff attended the Region VI Cluster Training and discussed the elder programs NATIVE HEALTH provides to the community.
NATIVE HEALTH thanks the Whirlpool Corporation and the Feel Good Fridge program for donating four new refurbished fridges to the NATIVE HEALTH Mesa Food Pantry! This generous donation will aid us in continuing to provide fresh, free food to our community!
NATIVE HEALTH attended the Pascua Yaqui Tribe's 25th Annual Dia del Nino in Guadalupe. Staff shared information about services at NATIVE HEALTH, providing face painting, cotton candy, produce bags, and voter registration!
NATIVE HEALTH continued the monthly distribution of Urban Native American Senior Food Bags. Thank you to the many generous donors who support this program which provides a monthly bag.
April's Read It and Eat was a huge success! Participants made a healthy dessert. The kiddos loved putting their own twist on the "healthy dirt pudding". Thank you to Nina Mason Pulliam Trust for funding this program.
NATIVE HEALTH staff provided a Blue Corn Mush demonstration at South Mountain Community College's American Indian Outreach Program.
NATIVE HEALTH thanks Brandon with Arizona Jews for Justice for generously donating boxes of cereal to our food pantry.
NATIVE HEALTH staff continue to provide Blue Corn Mush demonstrations and education to various school districts each week.
NATIVE HEALTH staff presented at the Arizona Food Bank Network conference on our various programs and services as well as a Blue Corn Mush demonstration and education.
Wellbearto's Travels
Wellbearto loves that Monster Jam!
Wellbearto was invited by the Phoenix Zoo for a behind the scenes tour. Wow, what a visit! The Phoenix Zoo is one of his favorite places and he loved the visit! Thank you, Phoenix Zoo!
Wellbearto loved seeing the tortoise and learning about their natural habitats. They have very interesting shells and can live almost anywhere!
Wellbearto loved the sloths. He learned that there are two groups of sloths in the word. Everything about them is sluggish and slow-moving, even food digestion. He also learned that they spend most of their lives hanging in the trees and that they are surprisingly good at swimming.
This is one of his favorite photos. This sheep was so gentle!
Wellbearto Junior is going on a special excursion in May. He was packing and getting excited. Check out the next newsletter for his vacation photos!
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 Pediatric Dental Services
Do I have to get a root canal?
by Tarek Kaakani, DMD

Do I Have to get a Root Canal? I often get this question and it’s one that is understandable given the position that the person in the chair may be in. TikTok, Instagram reels, YouTube all offer alternative therapies and may list harmful effects of the therapy – many listing that it’s only a temporary treatment as root canals eventually fail. Are these things true? If they are, then what’s the point of a root canal?

I’ll start with what is Root Canal Therapy. A tooth has three layers, enamel (outermost part), dentin, and pulp (the nerve chamber). A cavity can grow through the first two layers and penetrate the pulp, causing severe pain and potential swelling. At that point, a decision needs to be made on how to address the pain/swelling.

If there is swelling or an abscess, there are only two options, which include extraction or root canal therapy. If the cavity has gotten close to the nerve and is causing pain with no infection, then there is a third option often called selective pulp cap therapy. This option is where we may leave a little of the cavity outside the pulp and place a “cap” over the nerve – we are then hoping the tooth will heal itself. Now this is a very specific form of treatment and needs the ideal patient age, cavity size, and needs to be diagnosed as the tooth still being alive. This therapy can also still fail as the tooth can still reject the “cap.” What is a root canal? A root canal is a procedure in which the pulp is removed, the canals of the tooth are cleaned/shaped/disinfected, then everything is filled back in so you can keep your natural tooth.

Is there any harm in doing a root canal? While risk is low, there is always a risk of re-infection, failure of the root canal, or loss of tooth. If you have any sort of reaction, it’s important to speak with your dental provider to discuss treatment options. However, any sort of medical procedure introduces risks and root canals are no different. The risk is calculated versus the alternative of just pulling the tooth. What are my options if I decide to just pull the tooth? Unfortunately, very little. You can leave the space/gap (teeth may drift), removable prosthesis (a denture that you take in and out of your mouth), a fixed prosthesis (a bridge), and an implant. Each of these options needs ideal variables for success and each one comes at a premium cost. For example, an implant may sound ideal for many, but we must consider whether the bone is adequate for implant placement, the overall health of the patient to accept the implant when placed into the body, the healing time of the implant before placing the crown (4-8 months), and of course the cost of the implant. These considerations should be weighed by the patient and provider to determine ideal long-term benefits. That may mean that the root canal may be the best option for that patient if the variables listed above present questions.

The questions we should be asking when you’re told that you need a root canal are: Can I maintain the tooth following the root canal? What is my long-term prognosis of the tooth following root canal therapy? Are my alternative options (extraction, prosthesis, implant) for the betterment of my health or would it be best to proceed with root canal therapy? Good luck to those that will need root canals in making your decision. Trust that your provider will have your best interests in mind. Root canals are no different than a standard restorative procedure that just takes a bit longer to complete. And remember to follow-up with your dentist so they can track your dental health journey and ensure the best possible long-term outcome of your oral health.

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.
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP)
Every May 5 we bring recognition and advocacy to our missing and murdered indigenous relatives. We bring awareness by wearing red on this day and is a call for actions for justice. We want to send condolences and healing to their families.

The very first Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) march was held in Vancouver Canada in 1992. Since then, the movement has spread across Canada, the United States and beyond. Initially the movement started to address Indigenous women going missing, murdered, and uninvestigated.

Today, Indigenous men are missing and murdered at trending rates. Our LGBTQ-2S are also not immune to the crisis. You may hear the movement referred to MMIR, Missing and Murdered Indigenous relatives or MMIP, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons for all our people.

In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revealed homicide was the third leading cause of death for Indigenous women. Over 83% of Indigenous people will experience some sort of violence in their lives, and over 56% of Indigenous women will be raped. These statistics are higher than the national average compared to non-indigenous people.

Political attention has increased with the Federal, Not Invisible Act. Task forces have been created on the state and tribal levels to collect data and offer solutions. Individually we can all help by bringing awareness, advocating at MMIP events, and knowing what to do if someone close to you needs resources. Be supportive by listening to family’s needs first before trying to intervene. Do not raise money in your own campaign without the family’s consent, and please respect the family’s privacy.

For more information, you can call Stronghearts: 1-844-762-8483, National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center: 1-855-649-9199, National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233, National Sexual Assault helpline: 1-800-656-4673.

NATIVE HEALTH has a Domestic Violence Case Management Program. For more information, or services, please contact Madara via email.
Well-Woman Visits
National Women's Health Week is a week long health observance, beginning May 12, through May 18, coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The goal is to empower women to make their health a priority. National Women's Health Week also serves as a time to understand what it means to be well. What does it mean to be a well woman? It's a state of mind. It's being as healthy as you can be. And, most importantly it's about taking steps to improve your physical and mental health. Visit a health care professional and receive regular check-ups and annual preventive screenings. It is important to know about your health conditions prior to your appointments and ask the proper questions: *get active; *eat healthy; *pay attention to mental health including getting enough sleep and managing stress; *avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, not wearing seat belts, or bicycle helmets, and texting while driving.

NATIVE HEALTH's medical, dental, and behavioral health providers can assist you on your journey to good health. NATIVE HEALTH also provides prenatal services at NATIVE HEALTH Central.

For more information on well women visits, other programs or services, or behavioral health, please call (602) 279-5262.
NATIVE HEALTH's Intensive Outpatient Program



NATIVE HEALTH has many different behavioral health programs. Have you checked out our Intensive Outpatient Program?

Beginning in June, we will be offering a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Intensive Outpatient Group (IOP) that will be held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 am-noon.

In addition to the MBCT IOP group, we also will be starting a MBCT Standard Outpatient Group (SOP) as a step down from the MBCT IOP group on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-3 pm.

For continued care, there will be a weekly Aftercare Group that will follow the MBCT SOP group.

For more information, please call Sinetta at (602) 279-5262 x 12021 or email her. You may also call Deb at (602) 279-5262 x 14050 or email her.
NATIVE HEALTH's Traditional Garden News


You know what they say, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow” and the NATIVE HEALTH Traditional Garden is proof that hard work pays off. Over the past month, our Indigenous Wellness team poured their efforts into nurturing the earth, reaping a bountiful harvest of chard, carrots, beets, radishes, kale, and lettuce, among other delicious treasures. This month the items were shared with the NATIVE HEALTH Food Pantry and distributed to the community. As we write this article, the corn is sprouting, and the team is working hard on cleaning space for new plants.

We hope you will join us on Saturday, May 11, for our Second Saturday Garden Work Day, at 8 am, 1822 West Pierson, one block south of Camelback off 19th Avenue. Participants will get an opportunity to get outdoors and even harvest some fresh food items. No RSVP is necessary, and all are welcome. Please park at the 19th Avenue/Camelback Park and Ride and go through the gate.

April was a month of transition from harvesting, to prepping the soil, and planting as well has hosting two successful workshops. May 18th will be the next workshop from 8am to 10am in the garden where DIY Garden resin sun catchers will be made. We will be talking about the role the sun plays in your garden layout.

This month, we have other great garden classes. Please check out NATIVE HEALTH's social media for updates. Together, let's cultivate a future where wellness flourishes, one seed at a time.

What is growing in May: Basil, beans, blackeye peas, Armenian cucumber, melons, cantaloupe, okra, sunflowers, gourds, and some varieties of pumpkin.

Tips for the season: Plant water demands will continue to increase for a few more months as temperatures continue to rise, take a moment and schedule your water routine for the month to accommodate your garden.


Throughout the month of April, our team hosted engaging events, including a Seed Bomb Making activity, in celebration of Earth Day. It was a great hands-on experience crafting seed bombs from recycled and sustainable materials, with a special emphasis on drought-tolerant seeds. Participants had the opportunity to create four seed bombs each, ready to be planted in parks or their own backyard, fostering growth and sustainability in their communities.

For more info, please contact Gabby at [email protected]. 



A bountiful Swiss Chard harvest.
Thinning our Swiss Chard and other leafy green crops.
A participant enjoying the Seed Bomb workshop.
Thank you Bank of America's Native American Professional Network (NAPN) for attending NATIVE HEALTH's Second Saturday Workday at the Traditional Garden. These hard-working and dedicated volunteers spent hours doing various chores such as turning the compost, weeding, planting, and much more. Many hands truly make light work, thank you!
Participants at our Second Saturday Garden Workday making garden signs and other tasks.
The finished product- beautiful garden signs!
NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Program

NATIVE HEALTH receives funding from Indian Health Service Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI). Our Indigenous Wellness Program kicked off its six-part hands-on series Indigenize your Wellness in April. This is a series that explores the areas to become aware of and make choices towards a healthy life and preventing diabetes, as well as healthy traditional food demos.

There are three remaining classes in this series. They are:
May 14th Mindful meals with Medicine Wheel Nachos
May 29th Improve your snooze with Bison Zucchini Beds
June 13th – Indigenous Sovereignty and sustainability with Produce bags.

The school year is coming to an end, and we want to congratulate all the Wellness Warriors and students for all the hard work that was put into your studies and for practicing mindfulness and being active throughout the school year.


If you are looking into doing something fun before you head back to school in August, the Indigenous Wellness camp is the place to be the week of July 22-26. This Camp will be in the cool forest in Prescott, Arizona. Each day there will be different activities, arts, performers, and making new friends.

Wellness Warriors is hosting a Pita Pizza Cooking Class on May 15, from 5:30-7 pm at NATIVE HEALTH Central. This is for families with children ages 7-13, and all are welcome.

For more information all events contact Gabby at [email protected]
NATIVE HEALTH's Indigenous Wellness Camp
Looking for something fun to do this summer? Join the Indigenous Wellness Camp Youth at Emmanuel Pines, in Prescott, AZ, July 22 – 26, 2024.

Embrace the spirit of Indigenous culture and wellness at our upcoming youth camp, nestled in the beauty of Emmanuel Pines, Prescott, AZ. Designed for youth ages 9-13, this immersive experience promises a blend of fun activities, creative arts, and crafts, enriching cultural activities, outdoor adventures, and much more!

Experience Indigenous Culture:
At our camp, participants will have the opportunity to connect with Indigenous traditions and values through a variety of cultural activities. From storytelling sessions under the stars to hands-on experiences in traditional crafts, every moment is designed to foster a deeper appreciation for Indigenous heritage.

Outdoor Adventures:
Explore the wonders of nature through our outdoor experiences! From guided hikes in the picturesque surroundings of camp to exciting team-building challenges, there's something for every adventurous spirit. Our experienced team will ensure a safe and memorable journey for all participants.

Wellness Focus:
At the heart of the Indigenous Wellness Camp is a commitment to increasing overall wellness. Through mindfulness exercises, diabetes prevention sessions, and discussions on healthy living, we empower youth to prioritize their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

For registration details or questions, email Gabrielle Begay [email protected] or call (602) 279-5262 x 13007.
NATIVE HEALTH's WIC
NATIVE HEALTH WIC is excited to announce that we are participating in the Arizona Farmers Market Nutrition Program (AZFMNP) for 2024. WIC staff will be providing digital postcards to current WIC participants and you will only need to show the postcard on your phone at participating farmers market locations.

To request your postcard, please call WIC at 800-470-5939 or text us at 888-365-1338. All coupons must be picked up at a participating location by September 30, 2024 and used by November 15, 2024.
  
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.
April guests included:

  • Ceyshe Napa and Demetria Shepherd | Maricopa Community Colleges ACE/Hoop Healthcare Program
  • Monte Yazzie | Program Manager for the Phoenix Film Festival
  • Noel Octavio Bass | Producer and director of The Bears on Pine Ridge
  • Doctor Kimberly Yellow Robe and Darrel Christenson | American Indian Disability Summit and American Indian Youth Disability Summit
  • Alexander Soto | Director of the Labriola National American Indian Data Center
  • Madara Winters, RN, BSN | Sexual Assault Awareness Month
  • LCDR Jackie Campbell | Drug Take Back Day at PIMC
  • Mark Kitcheyan, Jr. | Fashion Designer - Culture Co.
  • Monique Gray Smith | Award-winning and best-selling author
  • Dave Auckly | Co-Founder and Co-Director of Navajo Nation Math Circles
  • Kim Etsitty | Diné high school science teacher who will tell us about her upcoming deep-sea ocean expedition onboard the Ocean Exploration Trust vessel, Nautilus
  • Deidre Havreloc | Children’s Author


If you, or someone you know would like to be a guest on Native Talk Arizona please contact us.
Have you registered to vote?
2024 is an election year! Only six short months until Election Day! Making sure you are registered is the first step!

Here's a few key dates for this year's elections:

July 8 - Last day to register for Primary Election
July 10 - Early in-person voting begins
August 2 - Early in-person voting ends
August 6 - Primary Election
September 17 - National Voter Registration Day
October 7 - Last day to register for General Election
October 9 - Early in-person voting begins
November 1 - Early in-person voting ends
November 5 - General Election

To register to vote, click here.
NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Programs


NATIVE HEALTH has multiple Home Visiting Program services within Maricopa and Pinal Counties, from expectant mothers to the age of eight years old.

These programs offer support, resources, and monthly group activities to support you and your family.

Check out the photo about this month's activities.

For more information about NATIVE HEALTH's Home Visiting Programs, or to enroll, please contact Sheena via email or Danielle via email.
NATIVE HEALTH - AHCCCS Application Assistance
Have you or your child lost AHCCCS coverage recently? If so, it is highly recommended that you reapply for benefits. KidsCare income eligibility was updated to expand KidsCare as of March 1, 2024.

The Federal Poverty Limit (FPL) went up from 200% FPL to 225% FPL for the KidsCare program. Which means income limits have increased!! See the table below for income limits.

225% FPL
1 $2,824.00
2 $3,833.00
3 $4,842.00
4 $5,850.00
Add $1,009 per additional person*

KidsCare is for children under the age of 19 years of age. If you do not know the status of your AHCCCS health insurance, have no insurance, or need general information contact NATIVE HEALTH's friendly Patient Enrollment Specialist for any help with an AHCCCS application, renewal, report a change or even providing documents. We also help with Cash (TANF) and Nutrition Assistance (SNAP). For more info, about KidsCare, click here.
You may contact NATIVE HEALTH's Patient Enrollment Specialists (PES) 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Check the AHCCCS website at www.healthearizonaplus.gov (Health-E-Arizona)
  3. 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.
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, volunteering, internships, assisting in our food pantries, and so much more!
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.

May 10 Deadline - ACE and HOOP Healthcare Program for First Year Native American High School Students on a future healthcare degree. For more info, or to apply, 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

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.

$10.00 Phoenix Zoo EBT tickets on Tuesdays and Sundays, for up to four tickets. To receive a discount, you must have valid photo identification. Discounts may not be combined with any other offer and are not valid on online or advanced tickets. Discounts may change without notice. EBT Program Update: If you have a valid Arizona state-issued EBT card and photo ID, then you can obtain up to four Phoenix Zoo tickets for $10 each on TUESDAYS & SUNDAYS ONLY. For more info, 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.
Community Events
2024
May 14 - First Things First Tribal Consultation, 10 am-3 pm, at the Heard Museum. 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.

May 23 - Northern Arizona Ani-Hunger Summit at the Flagstaff Family Food Center. For more info, click here.

June 7 - 8th Annual Navajo Education Conference, Navajo Nation Museum in Window Rock. 8 am-4:30 pm. For more info, contact Dr. Mink at [email protected].

June 10 - School Nurse's Association of Arizona's 32nd Annual School Health Services Conference "Powering Our Future through our Actions of Today- Promoting School Health for Academic Success" at the Desert Willow Conference Center. For more info, click here.

June 13-14 - 9th Annual Arizona Rural Women's Health Symposium.

June 15 - Diamondbacks Native American Recognition Day, Diamondbacks versus Chicago White Sox, 7:10 pm. For more info, click here.

June 16-18 - Notah Begay III (NB3) Foundation's Healthy Kids! Healthy Futures! Conference at the Sandia Resort and Casino in Albuquerque. For more info, click here.

June 19 - Health Choice's 3rd Annual 2SLGBTQ Health and Wellness Conference, 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Twin Arrows Casino Resort, Flagstaff. For more info, click here.

June 23-26 - 4 Corners Computer Science Convening, Ft. Lewis College. Free for K-12 educators and administrators that work with Native American students. 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.

August 7-9 - Local First Rural Policy Forum, Cottonwood and Clarkdale. For more info, click here.

August 14-16 - Special Diabetes Program for Indians Grantee Conference, Albuquerque. For more info, click here.

September 24-25 - 3rd Annual Sparks of Possibility Conference sponsored by SunClan at Desert Willow Conference Center for students in grades 7-12. This year's focus is "The Artist in You." Fee. For more info, click here.

October 10- 11th Annual Arizona Health Equity Conference at the Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix. For more info, 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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