Lending a helping hand

Halito,

I love this time of year because the true spirit of giving is in the air.

Choctaw Nation Head Start held a canned food drive and a coat drive. Food and coats collected were given to local families in need, churches and food banks.

The Choctaw Wellness Center also held winter apparel and toy drives. New socks, gloves, beanies, scarves, jackets blankets and toys were collected at Wellness Centers throughout the Choctaw Nation.

Outreach Services also distributed holiday food vouchers to low-income elders and families who live within the Reservation boundaries.

In November, the Choctaw Nation truly embodied the spirit of helping others by assisting Idabel residents impacted by the storm.

Around 30 tribal officers went to Idabel the night of the storm to assist with search and rescue efforts. Choctaw Nation Housing, Emergency Management, Behavioral Health and Community Based social workers were at the Multi-Agency Resource Center on November 12 to offer information and services to tribal members affected by the tornado.

After the storm, CNHSA Community Health Nursing gave tetanus shots to anyone who needed them using their caring van, and volunteers from various departments from the Choctaw Nation prepared meals and provided other services.

These are just a few ways the Choctaw Nation has helped its communities and tribal members this holiday season. Look for more ways the Choctaw Nation helped spread holiday cheer in the January issue of the Biskinik.

I am so proud to be a part of a community filled with such caring people who come together during tough times to help their neighbors.

As you enjoy the holiday season with family and friends, cherish the moments and blessings this year has afforded you.

Yakoke and God bless!