Our Commitment to the People: Holiday Assistance and the Nation’s Path Ahead

Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council

Re: Our Commitment to the People: Holiday Assistance and the Nation’s Path Ahead

Date: November 7, 2025

Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council Statement to All Members:

This year, the Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council has approved Holiday Assistance of $500 for all adult Tribal Members. The Council made this decision at a time when the Nation is under a budget deficit, meaning current spending to maintain operations and services is greater than the available funds. Despite this challenge, the Council chose to reprioritize spending and adjust other areas of the budget to ensure this year’s Holiday Assistance could be increased from the originally planned amount of $330. This action reflects the Council’s belief that, even as we work to restore financial balance, supporting our people must come first!

In past years, larger assistance payments were made possible through ARPA funding that was available during the COVID-19 pandemic and other federal funding that has since gone away under the current Trump Administration. The Tribe is now operating solely on its own fiscal resources. This year’s Holiday Assistance is funded entirely by Tribal funds, demonstrating the Council’s ongoing commitment to act responsibly while continuing to provide meaningful support to our members.

The Tribal Council remains focused on the long-term stability and self-sufficiency of the Yavapai-Apache Nation. While direct financial assistance provides short-term relief, lasting security for our people comes from strong programs, sound planning, and sustainable economic growth. The Council continues to review operations, identify cost-saving measures, and pursue new economic opportunities that will strengthen the Tribe’s financial position. These efforts are paired with continued investment in the programs and services that make a lasting impact.

Each of these areas represents more than a budget line; they are the foundation of independence and wellbeing for our members. By managing resources carefully today and planning for tomorrow, the Council is ensuring that the Nation can continue to provide essential services, expand opportunity, and protect future generations.

The Nation has faced challenges before and overcome them through unity, care, and determination. The Council believes that same strength will guide us through the current challenges we are facing, as we continue working to stabilize our finances and support our people.

We thank every member of our community for your understanding and trust as we move forward together. May this holiday season bring peace, stability, and connection to all our members and their families.

Respectfully,

Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council

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Resolution No. 226-25 (Excerpt)
A Resolution Approving the Appropriation and Distribution of Funds to All Adult Members of the Nation as a Holiday Assistance Payment

The Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Council approved the 2025 Holiday Assistance distribution in the amount of $500 for each eligible adult Tribal Member. Distribution will take place on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Yavapai-Apache Nation Middle Verde Gymnasium between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

• Photo ID is required for pickup.
• If picking up for another Tribal Member, a signed written authorization form and valid ID are required.
  • To obtain the authorization form or for questions regarding check pickup, please contact Lucinda Nahee, Enrollment Department, at lnahee@yan-tribe.org
• Checks not picked up will be mailed the following week by certified mail.
• Court-ordered deductions (such as child support, restitution, and fees) will apply per policy.
• This payment is classified as non-taxable general welfare assistance and does not need to be reported as income.

For additional questions concerning deductions contact the Tribal Court at (928) 567-1033 to inquire about any balances you may have.

Download the Official Statement Resolution Below (PDF-Attachment)