Applications Open for Cherokee Elders to Receive Christmas Gifts

TULSA, OKLA (KTUL) — The Cherokee Nation is now accepting applications for the Elder Angel Project.

Eligible Cherokee elders who apply can receive Christmas gifts.

“Cherokee elders are our wisdom keepers who help preserve our shared history. It’s important that we continuously honor and appreciate our elders. This program is just a small way for us to show that, but I know that these gifts will be a blessing for so many,” Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief Bryan Warner said.

To be eligible, elders must meet the following guidelines.

• Must be 60 years of age or older.
• Must be a Cherokee Nation citizen.
• Reside within Cherokee Nation Reservation.
• Provide proof of income.

Applications, that can be placed at any Cherokee Nation Human Services office, must be submitted by Nov. 1.

Human services offices can be found at:

• Belfonte Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 21 – 474894 State Highway 101, Muldrow
• Kenwood Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 21 – 745 County Road 487, Salina
• Oaks Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 22 – 324 East Cherokee Boulevard, Oaks
• Evening Shade Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 23 – 453929 E. 995 Road, Vian
• Spavinaw Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 23 – 125 South Main Street, Spavinaw
• Tsa-La-Gi Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 24 – 406 East Ruth #530, Sallisaw
• Greasy Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 25 – 467505 East 932 Road, Bunch
• Nowata Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 25 – 1018 Lenape Drive, Nowata
• Foyil Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 29 – 12302 Andy Payne Boulevard, Foyil
• Wisdom Keepers Nutrition Site – Oct. 30 – 1286 West 4th, Tahlequah

“The Elder Angel Tree is an important project within Human Services as it is another opportunity for us to connect with our elder Cherokee citizens,” Cherokee Nation Human Services Executive Director Jennifer Kirby said. “We get to check in with them when we take the applications, pass out the gifts, and see their reactions of gratitude for the thoughtfulness of others. It is a pleasure for us to be able to share in the giving to those who have given so much to others throughout their lives. We look forward each year to getting into the holiday spirit with our Cherokee elders.”