Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez recently signed a federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funding resolution totaling more than $1 billion to help the reservation’s residents throughout Arizona, Mexico and Utah.
KOB4 News reports that the money is part of the American Rescue Plan Act signed last year and will allocate $250 million for internet and housing projects, $215 million for water and waste-water projects, $210 million for localized priorities and $97 million to expand electricity in homes.
“More water, electricity, broadband, housing and hardship assistance will be provided to elders, youth, veterans, students, families and others,” Nez told KOB4 News. “Elders will get water lines, electricity, housing and other basic necessities -- they are not left out.”
Indian Country was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, which shed light on the numerous problems in the area related to water access, sanitation and communications infrastructure.
Indian Country was promised $20 billion in relief under the massive infrastructure bill approved in November.