Selawik (or Akuligaq), Alaska is a remote community located in northwest Alaska with the population of 845. 97.4 % of the population identify as Alaskan Native or Native American. Selawik is not connected to the State of Alaska road network or ferry system. As a result, basic goods and service, including adequate health and social services, are extremely expensive and difficult to access. The lack of medical access and the expense and logistical complexity associated with receiving medical care make Selawik particularly vulnerable in the COVID-19 pandemic.A significant portion of the community has been with out running water this year, which is needed for adequate sanitation and hand washing. Many people in the community live in multi-generational homes that are often overcrowded, creating significant social distancing challenges. Selawik tribal members have a high rate of underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Additionally, Selawik is a socio-economic disadvantaged community. 38% of the population is below the poverty level and 47% is below more than 125% of the poverty level. The cumulative impacts of limited health facilities, inadequate sanitation, socio-economic conditions, and underlying health conditions make the community particularly vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Selawik?s resources were stretched thin prior to the pandemic, and COVID-19 is further exacerbating the disparities. Since the start of the pandemic, the Native Village of Selawik and the Selawik Wellness Coalition have filled the needed role of coordinating preparedness and response. However, they haven?t had the budget or dedicate staff to properly meet the pandemic-related needs of the community. As a result, the Native Village of Selawik intends to use CDC funds to hire a COVID Response Coordinator who's sole responsible is COVID-19 preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery efforts. The COVID Response Coordinato
r will coordinate all COVID-related activities and measures at the community level. This includes the following ? expanding COVID-related communication through public service announcements on the local VHF radio network; broadcasting updates and mitigation orders; procuring and distributing person protective equipment (PPE) and sanitation supplies; making house visits to elders and at-risk individuals; developing a preparedness and response plan; coordination efforts with regional and state entities; and assisting with emergency coordination and recovery efforts, including connecting tribal members to resources such as unemployment, job opportunities, and mental health services. COVID-19 is expected to be a part of daily life for the foreseeable future. The Native Village of Selawik anticipates that hiring a designated COVID Response Coordinator will be a long-term solution to providing adequate response, preparedness, mitigation, and recovery services to the community. This position will ultimately mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on the health, safety and well-being of tribal members.The Native Village of Selawik is requesting $65,719.00 from the CDC for this project.