The Chickasaw Nation expands services to keep citizens safe in weather emergencies

The spring season is in full swing, and with it comes unpredictable weather. It is essential for many around the country to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather. In the Chickasaw Nation, and around the region, we understand that weather can change in an instant and can range from thunderstorms to tornadoes and even flash floods, sometimes within a day.

The key to overcoming these challenges lies in preparation and community support. At the Chickasaw Nation, we are fortunate to have a strong emergency management team and first responders in place that work tirelessly to support Chickasaws and our communities during weather events. We also offer a range of services and resources designed to help prepare for and respond to severe weather.

To help keep Chickasaws safe and minimize home damage year-round during several types of weather, we recently expanded the previous storm shelter program and renamed it the Homeowner Preparedness Grant, and increased grant funding. This program is available to Chickasaw homeowners around the country and offers funding for natural disaster preparedness equipment and items, such as storm shutters, generators, sandbags and pier wrapping.

We also encourage all Chickasaws to update their address with the Chickasaw Nation by adding your current information online at Chickasaw.net/AddressChange. This will ensure citizens and families receive important news and resources, and help the tribe respond and assist to weather events, if needed.

If Chickasaws are impacted by weather, natural disasters or crises, the Chickasaw Nation Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund is available to assist with relief and recovery efforts.

This month, many Chickasaws will be realizing their educational goals as they graduate from high school, college, career technology center, trade school and other programs. We congratulate all of the Chickasaw graduates across the country for their dedication and perseverance to reach this milestone. We recognize the hard work it takes to reach this goal and commend each graduate for their success. We look forward to everything you will achieve in the future.

For those continuing their education, a variety of resources are offered to assist in your education journey. Higher education grants, scholarships and incentives are available to Chickasaw college students each semester and the student support program offer general financial assistance to overcome any barriers related to postsecondary opportunities.

The Chickasaw Nation Career and Technical Education (CTE) Assistance Program offers assistance to Chickasaws attending a state or nationally accredited career technology center, trade school or private licensed training facility.

These resources and more are available to ensure Chickasaw students have the necessary resources, tools and support to succeed in any educational environment as they work to achieve educational success. 

This is a great time of year and there is much to celebrate and appreciate. We hope you and your friends and family have a safe and enjoyable spring!