Friday, April 4, 2025
4/4/2025
Special Diabetes Program for Indians - The Mescalero Apache Tribe SDPI Wellness Program (hereinafter Program) is a new grant application that aims to sustain diabetes education services made available to the Mescalero Apache community. Based out of the Mescalero Service Unit located in Mescalero, New Mexico, the Program is available to the 513 Native Americans diagnosed with diabetes and receiving care from the Mescalero Service Unit, and extends to other Native American community members. The Mescalero Apache Tribe has an estimated diabetes prevalence rate of 13.5 percent based on IHS 2022 Audit Report. Among the Native American Indian patients diagnosed with diabetes in the community, 17 percent use tobacco, 90 percent are overweight or obese, and 23 percent are depressed based on IHS 2022 Audit Report. These health factors demonstrate the need to continue specialized diabetes management education and prevention in the Mescalero community, and further, are integrated in the Program's approach to support an overall efficacy and impact of federal grant dollars. A well educated Diabetes Coordinator/ Director with over 40 years experience in the health field brings her knowledge and experience to support the Program. She is supported by two additional staff members who provide extended capacity, organization, and outreach capability throughout the community. Together, the program staff work with a number of collaborators and partners, which serve the community, and are good examples models of exercising and eating right will promote a reduction of diabetes complications and hopefully reduce the number of newly diagnosed persons with diabetes. The Program's network partners include tribal leadership, working with Indian Health Services and tribal departments, i,e, Elderly Center, and Boys and Girls Club. This application presents an approach that considers the unique challenges related to the Mescalero Apache community, such as limited access to fresh and healthy foods, lack of transportation to attend community functions, and a high unemployment rate, which all contribute to a number of other health disparities. The Program's main focus is physical exercising activities and good nutrition practices. The Program will provide a fully equipped fitness center that includes cardio and weight lifting equipment as well as elliptical machines. Cooking classes are to be conducted for both youth and adults on healthy food choices. The Program will target age groups include Youth (10-18 years old), Adults (19-60 years old), and Seniors (61-85 years old). The Program will also provide health assessments, vital checks, pre and post weight loss and exercising incentive activities. By continuing to provide a variety of activities, the Program will successfully engage all target groups and empower those living with diabetes or those that are at risk of being diagnosed to live a healthier lifestyle, and address other health issues that may be complicating diabetes self management. This application expands on services not previously engaged, and puts forth an effort to reach and encourage our target groups in new and innovative ways. The Mescalero Apache Tribe is committed to providing the services and resources necessary to make our people healthier and happier. From tribal leadership to Program staff, we pledge our best work, enthusiasm and dedication to improving the lives of those living with diabetes or other health issues, and giving them the tools to more successfully manage their conditions.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).