Blackfeet Tribe ready to distribute $7 million to tribal members in COVID-19 financial assistance

For Immediate Release—August 28, 2020

Blackfeet Tribe ready to distribute $7 million to tribal members in COVID-19 financial assistance

Tribe launches online application and to provide drive-thru support

Browning, MT—The Blackfeet Nation is now accepting applications from tribal members for a one-time $500 stipend for those who have experienced hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

$7 million has been allocated toward this effort from money the Tribe received from the CARES Act, which was established to ensure tribes have equal access to federal COVID-19 economic recovery resources.

“The supplement payment to our people has been a priority for the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council,” said Tim Davis, Chairman of the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council. “This pandemic has impacted us all in various ways, but we hope this payment will help alleviate some of the financial burdens that have come with it.”

Tribal members can access the online application on the Tribe’s website, blackfeetnation.com.

The website also includes information for alternative methods to complete and submit applications, which includes drive-thru service, email, pick-up and drop-off locations, mail, and fax.

“To help mitigate the spread of the virus, we highly recommend that applications be completed online,” said James McNeely, Public Information Officer for the Blackfeet Nation. “But we are also aware that some people prefer other methods when sharing personal information, which is why the Tribe has dedicated staff to support elders and others to access and complete the application in other ways.”

Starting on Monday, August 31, tribal members who prefer to submit a hard copy of their application will be able to go to a drive-thru at Glacier Peaks Casino to obtain the application, receive assistance, and submit the application. The drive-thru starts from North Boundary Street at the north gate of the powwow grounds.

The drive-thru will be available to tribal members Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., until December 16.

The Tribe asks that people follow the CDC and safety guidelines while in line at the drive-thru. Signs will be posted stating that individuals in their vehicles must wear a mask. All staff will have the appropriate PPE when engaging with the members in the drive-thru line.

The drive-thru will also have booths with information encouraging tribal members to complete the 2020 Census and register to vote for the upcoming elections.

“I am proud of the hard work the Tribe and our tribal members have done to prioritize the safety and wellness of our people during this pandemic,” said Davis.

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Contact:
James McNeely, Public Information Officer
Blackfeet Tribe
(406) 338-3513
jmcneely@blackfeetnation.com