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CUSICK — This holiday season, the Kalispel Tribe has surprised several in Pend Oreille County with thousands of dollars in donations and dozens of Christmas gifts.
“The holiday season has always been a special time of year for the Kalispel Tribe,” said Curt Holmes, Tribal Council vice chair and Kalispel Casino and Government Affairs executive director, in a Tribal news release. “This time of year, we want to thank our Team Members and community partners and ensure every child feels loved and has a magical Christmas.”
American Legion Post 217 in Cusick received $10,000 from the Tribe. Native Americans have demonstrated a commitment to the U.S. military service, showing rates of serving five times higher than the national average, according to a Tribal news release. The Legion will put these funds toward a building remodel.
The Tribe also collaborated with its Pend Oreille Valley Court Appointed Special Advocates program to provide Christmas gifts to children in the child welfare system during CASA’s sixth annual Christmas Project. At the Cusick School District, 86 children from families in need received gifts from the Tribe as well.
Additionally, 16 Tribal team members were selected to receive surprise donations of $1,000 each. These team members have had a tough year and are experiencing hardships, such as health issues, car troubles or other extenuating circumstances, according to the news release.
