The Cherokee Nation is now accepting applications for its annual Elder Angel Project, which provides Christmas gifts to eligible Cherokee elders.

Last year around 430 Cherokee elders were provided gifts through the program.

“Cherokee elders are our wisdom keepers who help preserve our shared history. It’s important that we continuously honor and appreciate our elders. This program is just a small way for us to show that, but I know that these gifts will be a blessing for so many,” Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief Bryan Warner said.

Application guidelines include:

• Must be 60 years of age or older.

• Must be a Cherokee Nation citizen.

• Reside within Cherokee Nation Reservation.

• Provide proof of income.

Eligible Cherokee elders may apply at any of the Cherokee Nation Human Services offices across the reservation from now until Nov. 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A list of in-person sign-up events is also provided below.

“The Elder Angel Tree is an important project within Human Services as it is another opportunity for us to connect with our elder Cherokee citizens,” Cherokee Nation Human Services Executive Director Jennifer Kirby said. “We get to check in with them when we take the applications, pass out the gifts, and see their reactions of gratitude for the thoughtfulness of others. It is a pleasure for us to be able to share in the giving to those who have given so much to others throughout their lives. We look forward each year to getting into the holiday spirit with our Cherokee elders.”

For more information, contact Cherokee Nation Human Services at 918-453-5422.

Applications will be accepted on the following dates between 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.:

• Foyil Senior Nutrition Site – Oct. 29 – 12302 Andy Payne Blvd., Foyil

• Wisdom Keepers Nutrition Site – Oct. 30 – 1286 W. 4th, Tahlequah Beginning Nov. 5, the public can start adopting Elder Angels at the Cherokee Nation W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex in Tahlequah at the Human Services office.