The loss of a loved one is an undeniably painful experience, often compounded by the daunting financial realities of funeral arrangements. Recognizing this burden, the Cherokee Nation offers a crucial lifeline to its citizens and members of other federally recognized tribes through its Burial Assistance Program. This program aims to alleviate the financial strain associated with funeral expenses, ensuring that families in need can provide a dignified farewell to their deceased.
The Cherokee Nation offers burial assistance for needy families through a program that has been a vital resource for over a decade. For approximately 15 years, the Cherokee Nation has collaborated with the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to provide funding for this essential service. The BIA contributes the greater portion of the funds, while the Cherokee Nation supplements the program to ensure its continued operation and reach. Jerry Snell, the Family Assistance Director, emphasizes the long-standing commitment of the Cherokee Nation to administering this program, recognizing its significance in supporting its community during times of grief.
The core principle of the Burial Assistance Program is to provide support to tribal citizens who are facing financial hardship. Eligibility is specifically targeted towards individuals and families living at or below poverty levels, meaning they lack the necessary financial resources to cover the costs associated with burial or cremation. It is important to understand that the program is not an automatic entitlement. As Snell clearly states, "Simply put, by virtue of being a Cherokee doesn’t entitle you to the benefits of the Burial Assistance Program." Rather, the program is designed to assist those who demonstrate a genuine financial need.
To qualify for assistance, several criteria must be met. First and foremost, the deceased individual must be a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, possessing a valid tribal citizenship card. Additionally, a Social Security card for the deceased is required, along with proof of income for the past year. This income verification can be provided through pay stubs or other documentation demonstrating the financial status of the deceased or their immediate family.
Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of all available resources, such as checking and savings account statements. The deceased must also have resided within the Cherokee Nation’s jurisdiction for at least six months prior to their passing. This residency requirement ensures that the program’s resources are directed towards those who are actively part of the community.
In addition to the above requirements, the family members seeking assistance must select a funeral home that has a pre-existing and active burial agreement with the Cherokee Nation. This partnership ensures that the program can effectively manage its resources and provide standardized services. Another critical factor in determining eligibility is the income level of the deceased’s immediate family. To qualify, the family’s income must not exceed 150 percent of the National Poverty Level standards for the past 12 months.
Resource limitations also play a significant role. If the family members have available resources exceeding $2,500 specifically earmarked for burial expenses, they are generally not eligible for assistance. These resources include, but are not limited to, banking accounts, savings accounts, life insurance policies, and any potential veteran’s benefits that may be available.
Snell underscores the stringent eligibility criteria, stating, "By the time you incorporate income eligibility and resource eligibility that rules out all individuals who for practical reasons are not impoverished." This rigorous screening process ensures that the program’s limited resources are directed to those who truly need them most. Despite the large number of tribal citizens, the program assists with approximately 225 to 230 burials annually. As Snell notes, "Needless to say, that’s a small number compared to the overall number or tribal citizens that we probably lose in the year’s time." This highlights the selective nature of the program and its focus on serving the most vulnerable members of the community.
The Cherokee Nation has established partnerships with approximately 60 funeral homes throughout its jurisdiction, as well as in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, and Coffeyville, Kansas. This extensive network ensures that families have access to participating funeral homes regardless of their location within the Cherokee Nation’s territory. As Snell explains, "We have contracts with all of the funeral homes in northeastern Oklahoma. There may be a funeral home or two that we don’t have contracts with." This commitment to collaboration allows the program to provide consistent and reliable services to those in need.
The Cherokee Nation offers burial assistance for needy families through two distinct options, each tailored to different circumstances and eligibility requirements.
Option 1 is exclusively available to citizens of the Cherokee Nation. This comprehensive package includes a range of essential services, designed to provide a dignified and respectful burial. The package includes a burial notice in the deceased’s local newspaper, a single death certificate, a memorial package to honor the deceased’s memory, a cloth-covered wooden casket, a concrete outer container to protect the casket, a tent and cemetery setup for the burial service, and professional services provided by the funeral home.
Under Option 1, the BIA and the Cherokee Nation jointly cover the entire cost of the package, effectively eliminating the financial burden for the grieving family. The BIA contributes $2,500 towards the expenses, while the Cherokee Nation provides an additional $500. This collaborative funding model ensures that Cherokee Nation citizens have access to a complete and dignified burial service without incurring any out-of-pocket costs.
Option 2 is available to citizens of other federally recognized tribes and, in certain cases, to Cherokee Nation citizens who may not qualify for Option 1. This option provides greater flexibility, allowing the family to choose any service offered by the participating funeral home. Under Option 2, the BIA provides a one-time, maximum payment of $2,400 towards the funeral service. However, the family is responsible for covering any remaining balance beyond this amount. This option provides valuable financial assistance while allowing families to customize the funeral arrangements to meet their specific needs and preferences.
The Cherokee Nation offers burial assistance for needy families as a critical safety net, providing essential support to those facing financial hardship during times of grief. The program’s eligibility requirements, funding structure, and service options are carefully designed to ensure that resources are directed to those who need them most, allowing families to honor their loved ones with dignity and respect.
For those seeking more information about the Burial Assistance Program, the Cherokee Nation encourages individuals to contact the relevant department. Inquiries can be made by calling 918-453-5000, extension 6266, or by sending an email to human-services@cherokee.org. The dedicated staff is available to answer questions, provide guidance on eligibility requirements, and assist families in navigating the application process. The Cherokee Nation offers burial assistance for needy families and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting its community during times of loss, ensuring that financial burdens do not overshadow the grieving process.