Navajo Nation OPVP safeguards $780,000 NM Capital Outlay funding, 13 Senior Center vehicles purchased, next year’s funding authorized

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The Navajo Nation Office of the President and Vice President intervened to prevent New Mexico $780,000 in capital outlay funding for 13 senior center vehicles from reverting to the state. 

OPVP Chief of Staff Patrick J. Sandoval and executive staff assistants coordinated a review of outstanding capital outlay expenditures that led to the timely purchase of the Chevrolet Suburbans.

"We understand the great importance of these senior center vehicles,” Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said. “They are lifelines connecting our elders to essential services, nutrition, and community involvement.”

The $780,000 in New Mexico capital outlay funding which was slated for reversion on June 30. Now, vital transportation and food delivery services for elders in the Fort Defiance, Shiprock, and Crownpoint agencies has been assured.

The President said that through use of the funding the Nation promised, elders will continue to lead fulfilling lives and be deeply connected with their communities and Navajo traditions.

The vehicles, operating under the Navajo Nation Division of Aging and Long-Term Care Support’s Senior Centers, have been crucial to support the wellbeing of Navajo elders and those who are 60+ years of age across the Navajo Nation's vast, rural terrain. 

Many Navajo senior citizens live in remote areas with limited access to personal transportation.

The President said the efforts of the Division of Aging and Long-Term Care Services, working with limited staff, exemplify the commitment to Navajo elders.

Anslem Lewis, health service administrator within the Navajo Department of Health, said he is in the process of acquiring five additional senior center vehicles from surrounding dealerships. 

The purchases will contribute directly to services offered by the following chapter senior centers: Coyote Canyon, Crownpoint, Thoreau, Nageezi, Iyanbito, Rock Springs, Tohatchi, Chichiltah, Gadii'ahi, Twin Lakes, Newcomb, Baahaali, Beclabito.

Lewis said the purchases will help the Navajo Nation affirm its commitment to elders,.

Also on Monday, President Nygren signed funding applications for the upcoming capital outlay funding cycle for 17 chapters through the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services agency. Those applications will be submitted ahead of their May 30 deadline.

###