The Navajo Nation Division of Aging and Long-Term Care Support (DALTCS) is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of older adults and families within the Navajo Nation. Formerly known as the Navajo Area Agency on Aging (NAAA), DALTCS provides crucial services and programs, including initiatives aimed at supporting families and preventing children from entering foster care.
One key program overseen by DALTCS is the Foster Grandparent Program, a component of AmeriCorps Seniors. This program connects senior citizens with at-risk children, offering valuable mentorship and tutoring. By volunteering their time in various educational settings such as preschools, Head Start programs, and schools within the Navajo Nation, foster grandparents play a vital role in improving children’s lives and fostering a nurturing family environment. This support system is crucial in helping to keep children within their families and communities, thereby acting as a preventative measure against the need for foster care placement. The program recognizes that strong community and intergenerational connections are essential for the well-being of Navajo children and families.
In addition to the Foster Grandparent Program, DALTCS offers a range of supportive services for older adults, including nutrition programs, transportation assistance, and financial aid for vision, dental, and hearing needs through Trust Funds. Furthermore, the Navajo Family Caregiver Support Program provides multifaceted support to family caregivers who are looking after older relatives or grandparents raising grandchildren. This program aims to sustain family caregiving efforts, allowing older individuals to remain in their homes and communities and promoting the stability of families. By supporting grandparents in their caregiving roles, this program also contributes to preventing grandchildren from needing foster care, reinforcing family units within the Navajo Nation.
Through these comprehensive services and programs, DALTCS demonstrates its commitment to supporting Navajo elders, families, and children, working proactively to strengthen communities and reduce the need for foster care through preventative and supportive measures.
