SAINT REGIS MOHAWK TRIBE RECEIVES
$450K PRIVATE DONATION
Funds Will Help Cover Projected Budget Deficit For Health Services

AKWESASNE , NY — The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Health Services Division got a big financial boost last month as it received more than $450,000 from the distribution of an individual’s estate. Elizabeth Martin, of Astoria , Queens , upon final disposition of her will, donated portions of her estate to several tribes, hospitals, organizations and individuals throughout the country.

“The Tribe is extremely appreciative of Elizabeth Martin’s generous donation,” said Tribal Chief Barbara A. Lazore. “It comes at a time when the Tribe is faced with an increased need to support Health Services and it will be applied towards their budget.”

The Tribal General Fund is currently funding health care at 35 percent of its operational need. There is an increased need for additional funding as Health Services is projecting a $2.5 million deficit for next year. The $454,899.89 donation is being allocated to specifically address a portion of the budget shortfall.

Since it was established in 1978, Health Services has provided preventative, primary, and emergency health care to the Akwesasne community. Their integrated service has expanded over the years and has become the largest of the Tribe’s nine divisions, employing 40 percent of the Tribe’s 425-person workforce.

“Our community has one of the best diagnostic and treatment centers in the region,” said Health Services Assistant Director Rob Cree. “The health of community members remains a concern for Health Services and Elizabeth Martin’s donation will help us to continue providing the best possible care.”

The tribal health facility was the first medical certified diagnostic and treatment center in Akwesasne.  For nearly twenty years, it operated out of a building that also housed a library. In September 1991 however, an improved $2.4 million dollar health center opened its doors to provide a full range of services to more than 8,000 Mohawks. 

The health facility provides quality medical and dental care, mental health, substance abuse treatment, nutrition, home health care, and pharmacy services. Special service programs are also offered in several areas of health care and particular attention is devoted to prevalent diseases.

Health Services conducts a variety of community awareness programs on health-related issues and last year added an on-site mammography unit that screens clients twice a month. They hold substance abuse prevention programs in the local schools and work closely with individuals that are at risk of contracting diabetes to encourage change in their physical activity and dietary habits.

The facility is steadily becoming more community-oriented and is letting people know the important role they have in the success of Health Services. It is improving its communications with the community by utilizing the local media to share information on its programs and services. Its clients can also find a wide assortment of health information in their waiting rooms.

The private donation will be used to support the Health Service’s ongoing efforts to promote healthy lifestyles to community members. The Tribal Council and senior administrators for the health facility are currently determining specific uses for the funds.

“Elizabeth Martin has lent a helping hand to one of our community’s most important facilities during its time of greatest need,” said Chief Lazore. “I hope that her last wish to provide a charitable gift to the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe can serve as an example for other humanitarian efforts.” 

Contributions made directly to a federally recognized tribal government or any of its programs are tax deductible. Anyone interested in learning more can contact Brian Fent, Chief Financial Officer, at (518) 358-2242 (ext. 255).

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