Tribal Members: COVID-19 Emergency Economic Assistance

From economic hardship to food and housing insecurity to deprivation of our cultural and spiritual ways, the Senate recognizes that our people continue to suffer from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and has approved another round of emergency economic assistance to all eligible Swinomish members.

Through the COVID-19 emergency funding allocated under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Tribe is able to provide $1700 to each of its enrolled members (children included) to help offset expenses amidst the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Tribal members who qualified for assistance in 2021 are prequalified. For those who did not receive assistance funds in 2021, applications will be available.

Checks will be mailed to households on January 26. Whether or not there is a drive-thru check distribution depends on COVID-19 case numbers in our community.

Because ARPA funds were issued with stipulations on how they can be used and with limits as to how much can be distributed to individuals, the Senate does not anticipate being able to authorize any further direct cash assistance to membership unless Congress approves additional funding or cash assistance to individuals.