Tohatchi Senior Center Reopens, Honoring Generations of Navajo Elders

TOHATCHI, N.M. — The Totatchi Senior Center has been closed for five years and on October 11, the center celebrated its grand reopening.

This milestone restores a welcoming place to gather, to share stories, and to receive essential services for Navajo elders. Tohatchi was one of the senior centers listed as priority for reopening this year. Additionally, Jeddito Senior Center recently reopened, while Coyote Canyon and Mexican Springs are next in line.

These efforts are backed by expanded transportation resources, meal delivery programs, home safety initiatives, and millions in secured funding for elder care services. The State of New Mexico also contributed $350,000 to support renovations and provide a new vehicle.

This reopening was made possible through the leadership of Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, the Navajo Nation Department of Health, the Division of Children and Family Services, the Navajo Division of Aging and Long-Term Care Services, and the dedicated staff of the Tohatchi Senior Center, including Supervisor Evangelina Muskett, Cook Raelynn Herbert, and Driver Sharon Lawless.

“The Tohatchi Senior Center represents community, culture, and a promise to honor those who came before us,” President Nygren said. “This reopening is part of a broader mission to revitalize senior centers across the Navajo Nation, placing elders at the heart of every step forward.”