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Administration on Aging Awards Grants to Tribal Elders

The federal Administration on Aging (AoA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recently awarded some $30 million in grants to support community programs and services designed to help American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) tribal elders lead healthier lives. A total of 236 grants were awarded to tribal organizations representing 300 tribes across the country. Nearly $24 million of this funding is earmarked for nutrition and supportive services for Native elders. In addition, AoA awarded 196 Native American Caregiver Support Grants totaling $6.2 million to assist the caregivers of AI/AN elders, as well as elders who are caring for their grandchildren.

“An increasing number of American Indian and Alaska Native elders prefer to remain in their homes, communities and on reservations,” explains AoA Assistant Secretary Josefina G. Carbonell. “Our programs will help them with services such as homemaker services and transportation to the doctor, which will help them maintain their independence and well-being while preserving the heritage of Native American culture.”