Missoula Urban Indian Health Center Receives $1.65 Million

Congratulations are going out to essential local non profit, the Missoula Urban Indian Health Center, as they have received two federal grants totaling $1.65 million! This will not only allow the MUIHC to continue the services they now offer, but will also help implement new, much needed services for Western Montana communities.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)-funded Missoula Native Connections is a 5-year project aimed at increasing the support and delivery of culturally tailored suicide and substance abuse prevention services to American Indian youth ages 15 to 24. MUIHC will work in partnership with the University of Montana and Missoula County Public Schools to develop a referral system and service delivery network aimed at reducing youth suicide and substance abuse. American Indian youth in Montana are five times more likely to commit suicide and also report higher rates of marijuana, methamphetamine, and other drug use. This SAMHSA funding will allow MUIHC to implement a community-driven program aimed at reducing those numbers.

 

The Indian Health Service (IHS)-funded 4-in-1 grant is a 3-year project that provides mental health, alcohol and substance abuse prevention, immunization, and health promotion and disease prevention services to American Indians living in Missoula. These are crucial support services that complement the direct medical care offered by MUIHC. “The 4-in-1 grant program underscores IHS’ commitment to provide quality health care for urban Indians,” said IHS Principal Deputy Director Rear Adm. Michael D. Weahkee. “We are excited to address the health needs of urban Indians across the nation by partnering with urban Indian organizations to provide access to comprehensive and culturally appropriate health care services.”

This is amazing news, congrats and thanks to the dedicated staff at the MUIHC who are making positive changes in Missoula!