Turning Distressed Into Success

35-year-old Evan of the Turtle Mountain Tribe has always dealt with obstacles, but his biggest challenge was becoming homeless. In recent years, Native Americans have experienced a 5% rise in homelessness. Resources are already limited on reservations, and inadequate housing continues to be a problem. To improve the quality of life for people like Evan, Partnership With Native Americans (PWNA) has the Sioux Nation Relief Fund (SNRF) program. Through SNRF’s Residential service, Program Partners like Hayley in Dunseith, North Dakota, receive helpful supplies to distribute.

Hayley works for the Mikinaak Ode Shelter, where Evan has lived since January 2023. Since Evan became a resident, the shelter has helped him in many ways, from getting his birth certificate to giving him personal care incentives from SNRF. He’s found the cleaning wipes and sprays to be useful, and he saves money on shower supplies. He shared, “Things like a 3-in-1 shampoo, conditioner and body wash cost $10 here.” With no income aside from social security, Evan accepts all the help he can.

Like many people in rural tribal areas, Evan relies on public transportation or the kindness of others to go anywhere. He noted, “Transportation trouble is common in a high-poverty community like this.” Native Americans experience higher rates of poverty than Whites, irrespective of age.

Thanks to Hayley’s support and the helpful SNRF products, Evan secured an apartment in May 2023 in his hometown of Belcourt, North Dakota and is moving in soon. The Turtle Mountain Tribe will help Evan with expenses so he can get back on his feet, and he’ll live closer to his mom and his three children, ages 5, 8 and 10.

When Native Americans like Evan find themselves in need, they can rely on PWNA Program Partners thanks to the generous support of people like you. Help turn more stories of distress into success by donating to SNRF today.