U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $184,000 in federal funding to support the Seneca Nation of Indians during the COVID-19 outbreak. This federal funding was allocated through the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Supporting Tribal Public Health Capacity in Coronavirus Preparedness and Response program, and will be used to assist tribal health departments and the tribal public health system during the COVID-19 outbreak.

“As New York reopens and looks to recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 crisis, we must ensure that tribal communities all across the state have the proper tools necessary,” said Senator Schumer. “Native communities have long experienced chronic illnesses that make them more susceptible to COVID-19. I am proud to deliver this funding for our disproportionately impacted tribes and will continue to fight for funds to help native communities better prepare and respond to the current and future health care crises.”

“Every New Yorker deserves access to quality health care, especially as we face a global health crisis,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The COVID-19 outbreak has highlighted institutional and ongoing health disparities in Native American communities, and has affected New York’s tribes at startling and disproportionate rates. This funding will help these communities receive the reliable and cutting-edge care needed during this unprecedented pandemic. I will always fight to ensure our Native American communities have the resources needed to keep every family safe and healthy.”