"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee Nation Providing Storm Assistance

"Cherokee Nation Human Services employee,
Tyson Girdner, delivers water to a shelter
in Claremore."

TAHLEQUAH, OK - The Cherokee Nation is helping Cherokee citizens and other residents throughout northeastern Oklahoma who have suffered power outages during the winter storm currently covering many parts of the state.

The tribe has provided water, blankets and other necessities to shelters throughout northeastern Oklahoma in the wake of the recent storms, which have left thousands without power.

“Our crews have been out in the communities delivering water, blankets and other needed supplies for the past two days. We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working with state and local officials in helping the residents of these areas.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

In an effort of ga-du-gi, the Cherokee word for “working together,” the tribe has partnered with the American Red Cross as well as several city and county organizations to provide water, blankets, cots and other necessities to individuals stranded at shelters during the wake of the winter storm. In addition, Cherokee Nation Marshals were sent to Collinsville and Tulsa to assist with relief efforts and patrols.

“The supplies and the blankets provided by the Cherokee Nation have been a great help to us here at the shelter,” said Savanna Haddock, American Red Cross Community Coordinator for Rogers and Mayes counties. “We have assisted over 100 people so far, and we are expecting more.”

Cherokee Nation Emergency Management crews are also coordinating efforts to visit the homes of elderly and infirmed Cherokees in the disaster areas. Citizens needing assistance are urged to go to a shelter established in their area.