CROWNPOINT – Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez was joined by Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety Executive Director Jesse Delmar, Four Corners Detox Recovery Center Program Director Barry Ore, and Western Sky Community Care, Inc. CEO Jean Wilms on Oct. 18 as they signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a partnership between the Navajo Nation, Four Corners Detox Recovery Center, and Western Sky Community Care, Inc., to provide behavioral health, mental health, substance misuse disorder, and related care services at the Crownpoint Detention Facility.
“Overcoming addiction is a process that requires continuous support, encouragement, and patience. Many of our people try to seek resources but these care services are not available on the Navajo Nation, however, through partnerships we can provide essential services on the Navajo Nation for individuals battling substance abuse,” Nez said. “Having detoxification services and treatment on the nation will allow our people to set a good foundation for recovery and healing.”
On Oct. 6, Nez had the opportunity to visit the Four Corners Detox Recovery Center in Gallup and spent time talking with individuals who are receiving alcohol and substance detox services and treatment. During his visit, Nez commended the patients for receiving treatment and encouraged them to remember the teachings of their elders, to pray for themselves, and support one another as they continue on the path to recovery.
The MOU will allow Four Corners Detox Recovery Center to provide medical detoxification services and residential treatment programming with an emphasis in traditional cultural practices and evidence-based treatment through peer and staff. The provider employs licensed mental health and addiction counselors, case managers, peer support workers, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, paramedics, and medical technicians to meet the holistic needs of clients.
In addition, Western Sky Community Care will provide care coordination and transition of care functions between Crownpoint Detention Facility and tribal entities. Moreover, they will be responsible for Medicaid-covered inpatient and outpatient services provided to clients during the time of treatment.
“The wellbeing of our people and families is a priority of our administration, and we are grateful for this opportunity between Four Corners Detox Recovery Center and Western Sky Community Care,” Nez said. “Also, with the support of the 24th Navajo Nation Council, we recently approved over $19 million in the American Rescue Plan Act to build at least three rehabilitation centers for detox and outpatient services closer to home on the Navajo Nation. Together, we continue to lay a strong foundation of healing and recovery for our citizens.”
The Memorandum of Understanding is effective immediately.
Staff Reports