<a href="https://healthylife7.com/cherokee-nation-celebrates-grand-opening-of-elder-nutrition-site-in-north-tulsa/” title=”Cherokee Nation Celebrates Grand Opening of Elder Nutrition Site in North Tulsa”>Cherokee Nation distributes $1.87 million to 2026 public health grant awardees
Thu, July 9, 2026 at 4:09 PM
UpdatedThu, July 9, 2026 at 4:10 PM
(Photo Courtesy of Cherokee Nation)
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation is distributing $1.87 million from its 2026 Public Health and Wellness Partners Grant program to over 30 awardees
“Our Public Health and Wellness team received so many great applications again this year to further the cause of public health in our communities, which Deputy Chief and I know are so consequential especially in communities that often lack real Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “These grants are an investment in healthy living and they are investments through which we will see a great return for many generations to come.”
One of the most significant projects is the $86,500 grant awarded to the City of Skiatook to help fund the construction of a new emergency communications tower
City of Skiatook E911 Director of Communications Tiarr Wakefield explained, “The tower will support our police, fire, EMS and 911 communications by providing a dedicated communications infrastructure designed to meet both our current needs and future growth. This investment is about more than infrastructure—it’s about ensuring that when someone calls 911, first responders have dependable communications that allow them to respond quickly, coordinate effectively and serve our community safely. We sincerely appreciate the Cherokee Nation’s partnership and commitment to enhancing public safety for the citizens of Skiatook and the surrounding communities we serve.”
Other projects include a $100,000 grant awarded to Maryetta Public School in Adair County to help them construct outdoor pickleball and basketball courts for students and a $150,000 grant awarded to the Jay Chamber of Commerce funding the construction of a walking trail in Jay City Park
The Cherokee Nation said the remaining funds were distributed to projects supporting public safety improvements, ADA-accessible infrastructure, community wellness programs and various youth athletics facilities
The grant program is funded through the Cherokee Nation’s Public Health and Wellness Fund Act, which sets aside 10% of funds generated by the tribe’s health system
“These projects embody the spirit of Gadugi, the Cherokee word for ‘working together’ in action for the wellbeing of our citizens,” said Deputy Chief Bryan Warner. “I know our Public Health and Wellness team was excited to review all of the submissions and we will all be eager to see how these dollars make a positive legal impact.”
Deputy Secretary of the State Canaan Duncan has already confirmed the tribe plans to continue the grant program next year
To see the full list of grant awardees, click here
