HELENA — The state health department is trying to determine the best way to spend a $250,000 appropriation to help prevent suicide among Native American youth.
The agency is asking tribes how they would like to see the money spent. The tribes have until Nov. 10 to submit final recommendations.
The Montana Suicide Review Team says 21 Native Americans in Montana completed suicide last year.
The Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy’s Reservation is working to prevent suicide by getting its youth involved in their culture and the land.
Jay Eagleman with the Chippewa Cree’s suicide prevention task force says the goal is to produce activities that create wellness.
State-Tribal Relations Interim Committee members said Thursday the Chippewa Cree effort is a good example for other tribes to follow.