Department of Health & Human Services

Health Services
Substance Use Disorder Services
Mental Health
Human Services
Emergency Services
Public Health Services
Family Services
Quality and Compliance
Crisis Resources

Connect with us on Facebook

Circle of Health

Circle of Health is a secondary health insurance program that pays for deductibles, copays, and insurance premiums for Mille Lacs Band members and eligible family members. Circle of Health is the payer of last resort. All Band members are eligible no matter where they live. Only one policy per family or household is permitted.

Roberta Lemieux, Circle of Health Manager ................................................ 320-532-7723
E-mail: roberta.lemieux@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Claims Processors

Band members can contact a claims processor regarding their individual claims or reimbursements.

Deb Smith, Claims Processor A–G ............................................................. 320-532-8903
E-mail: deb.smith@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Miranda Perrington, Claims Processor H–P ................................................ 320-532-7724
E-mail: miranda.perrington@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Bonnie John, Claims Processor Q–Z ........................................................... 320-532-8904
E-mail: bonnie.john@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Claim Self-Submission

When submitting claims for reimbursement or for payment to the provider, Circle of Health will need the explanation of benefits (EOB) from the primary insurance, along with the proof of payment or the statement or bill.

Reimbursements

For reimbursement claims, please allow a two to six-week grace period from the date of submission to process. If you have not received a reimbursement or denial after six weeks, please contact your Claims Processor or the Circle of Health Benefit Manager.

Cultural Advisory and Practitioners

The importance of culture and understanding is a core guiding principle in Health and Human Services. The Cultural Advisor for HHS, works in collaboration with HHS leadership teams to guide cultural education, support, and give decisional guidance when needed. The Cultural Practitioners work with the Cultural Advisor and the communities to bring culture to the families and the communities of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe.

• Bobby Eagle, Ogimaa Giniw ............................................................ 320-362-4799
• Lyndsay Mitchell, Gaagige Waabiski Migizikwe ................................. 320-362-0362
• Dan Wind, Miskwaanakwad ............................................................ 320-674-0588

Health Services

Health Services is comprised of the three district clinics, which include the provision of laboratory and radiology services (radiology is offered only in the District I Clinic), dental services, optical services, population health, home care, case management/car coordination and a full-service pharmacy. Health service departments are open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless otherwise announced due to holidays or 39 government closures. For outreach services in the district clinics a schedule is posted and updated monthly.

Client access schedules and/or coordinates access to clinical services, currently Dental Department is not scheduled through Client Access however in the future will be aligned with Client Access for scheduling.

Health and Human Services Main Number .................................................... 320-532-4163

• District I Clinic Extension 2500
• District II Clinic Extension 5232
• District III Clinic Extension 3328

Health and Human Services Toll-free Telephone Number ............................. 888-622-4163
Nursing Direct Line ........................................................................................ 320-532-4163, ext. 2555
Care Management Direct Line ....................................................................... 320-532-1985
Dental Direct Line .......................................................................................... 320-532-4779
Pharmacy Direct Line .................................................................................... 320-532-4770

Specialty Care

Specialty clinical care currently offered is:

• Internal medicine
• Cardiology
• Family medicine obstetrics
• Podiatry
• Nutrition counseling and diabetes management support from a registered dietician
  All special care appointments are offered in-person and virtually,
  appointments can be scheduled through Client Access at 320-532-4163.

Care Management and Clinical Coordination

The care management and clinical coordination team works across HHS to provide support and resources to Band members. They partner with families and clients to assist with care planning, patient/family education, medication management and coordination of care transitions. If interested in care management call 320-532-4163.

Maternal Child Health Program

The maternal child health program focuses on the health and well-being of women, children and families. Services include: Prenatal visits provide education on (1) normal body changes during pregnancy; (2) nutritional needs during pregnancy; (3) healthy choices during pregnancy; and (4) referrals to other available services.

Postpartum visits are available to mothers after delivery, regardless of whether they saw a nurse during pregnancy. Education and support are offered on (1) normal body changes after pregnancy; (2) breastfeeding support; (3) family planning and birth control methods; (4) information about infant development, weight, and
measurement; (5) parenting techniques; and (6) referrals to other available services.

Well-Child Services are available to monitor infant growth and development, infant nutrition including breast feeding support, what to expect for sleep habits and infant play that stimulates development.

The Family Home Visiting program focuses on supporting care givers from pregnancy to age five. The focus is healthy development in all areas of developmental growth. To get information or sign up for maternal child services call care management at 320-532-1985.

Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) Program

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program is a supplemental nutrition program that provides vouchers for supplemental foods that promote good health, nutrition education, and referrals to other related programs. Supplemental food vouchers are given to eligible pregnant or breastfeeding women and their children, depending upon their health needs.

Eligibility for WIC programing is:

• Pregnant women
• Breastfeeding women
• Women who have an infant younger than six months old
• Infants and children up to five years old

Individuals must also:

• Be eligible for services through the Band
• Be at nutritional risk
• Meet liberal income guidelines

WIC Voucher Schedule is as follows:

• District I: First and third Thursday of the month 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• District II: Second Thursday of the month 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• District III: Fourth Thursday of the month 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

If interested in WIC services, the direct phone number is 320-532-4163 Extension 7700

Home Care Department

In home care is provided by registered nurses and home health aides. Services provided are dependent on the physician order and health assessment. The registered nurse can provide medication management, wound care, dressing changes, and post-operative care. The Home Health Aide supports provides basic health services as assigned by the registered nurse. To access home health services please contact client access at 320-532-4163.

Population Health Department:

The population health department focuses on disease prevention and management to improve health care outcomes. A registered dietitian is available to meet with clients for nutrition counseling and diabetes management. Appointments can be scheduled through client access at 320-532-4163.

Dental Department

The dental clinic offers dental services Monday through Friday, from| 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For dental emergencies, please call the dental department at 320-532-4779 by 8:00 a.m. the day you wish to be seen.

Optical Department

Optical services are available Monday through Friday. The optometrist is available Monday – Wednesday and appointments can be scheduled at 320-532-4163.

Pharmacy Department

The Ne-Ia-Shing Pharmacy provides prescriptions to Band members, registered Native Americans, and Band employees. Prescription courier services extend to Districts II and III, as well as the Hinckley Assisted Living Unit. Hours for the pharmacy pickup window are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The pharmacy is closed from 12:00-12:45 p.m. For refills, please call 320-532-4770. Please also allow a day’s notice for the refills to be processed.

Behavioral Health

The HHS behavioral health division includes substance disorder programs and recovery and mental health services.

Substance Disorder Programs

The substance disorder programs include out-patient programing, residential treatment and a men’s halfway house. All programs are White Bisson certified.

Out-Patient Services Substance Disorder (SUD)

SUD counselors determine the type of treatment that is needed by patients with substance use disorders. To schedule a comprehensive assessment with an SUD counselor, contact: 320-532-7773.
Comprehensive Assessments are available in District(s) I, II, and III.

To schedule: 320-532-7773

Email: sudinfor@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov
Mille Lacs Band Outpatient Treatment Program

The Mille Lacs Band Outpatient Treatment Program is offered in Districts (s) I, II and III. Referrals are accepted from other Residential Treatment facilities, County or Tribal SUD Counselors. The Outpatient Treatment Program are scheduled Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays 1pm to 4pm in Onamia, McGregor and Hinckley.
To Schedule an intake: 320-532-7773
E-mail: sudinfo@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Community Wellbriety Feasts

Community Wellbriety Feasts are rotated in each district every month from September to May. The SUD Department sends out flyers through social networking and tribal e-mail. Contact the SUD Department for the schedule or if you have questions at 320-532-7773 or e-mail at sudinfo@hhs.millelacaband-nsn.gov
Support Groups are offered by our amazing Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Community Members.

District I: Onamia

Monday

Men’s Empowerment Group 6:00 p.m. at the Old District I Community Center

Tuesday

Women’s Healing Circle 5:30 p.m. at the Old District I Community Center

Wednesday

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Meeting 6:00 p.m. at the Red Brick House

Sunday

Keeping It Real Recovery 6:00 p.m. at the Red Brick House

District II: East Lake

Wednesday

Wellbriety 6:00 p.m. at the East Lake Community Center

District III: Hinckley

Wellbriety 6:00 p.m. at Meshakwad Community Center

Four Winds Lodge

Four Winds Lodge is the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in-patient residential treatment center serving Mille Lacs Band members and enrolled members of federally recognized tribes. The focus of treatment is the whole person. The program lays the foundation integrating best practices in treatment of substance disorders with a standard of cultural care and healing that helps Native clients work through issue of historical trauma and the impact addition has had on their lives and the lives of their families.
Admissions into Four Winds is through a referral which can be made from tribes, social workers, physicians, the court system, former clients, friends and family. Self-referrals are also accepted. Admissions are coordinated by the admissions department; they provide program information and assist with gathering information needed for a scheduled admission.For admissions information contract:

Lisa Levig, Admissions Clerk ..................................................................... 218-454-8903
E-mail: lisa.levig@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Halfway House Program

The Halfway House Program provides a clean and sober living environment for adult Native American men suffering from the effects of alcohol or a drug addiction. House events include:

Tuesday 6:00 p.m. Talking Circle with feast held at the cabin next door.
Thursday 4:00 p.m. start fire for lodge and feast at the cabin next door.

For admission information contact:
Richard D. Hill B.S. ADCIII, Associate Director ............................................ 320-630-2627

Mental Health Services

Mental health diagnostic assessments and counseling are provided to individuals and families. Appointments are available Monday through Friday in-person or virtually. To schedule an appointment, call 320-532-4163.

Senior Living

The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Senior Living is an independent living housing unit for Mille Lacs Band Elders (55 years of age and up) and their spouses. A referral can be made for in-home services than may be needed by the resident. Ne-Ia-Shing Clinic can provide homecare, skilled nurse visits, and homemaking services. Case management is also available for residents in senior living. These are a list of services:

Home Maker Services:

• Basic housekeeping services: once a week.
• Assistance with laundry weekly or up to two times a week, depending on needs.

Home Health Aid Services:

• Assistance with bathing.
• Vital sign monitoring.
• Ostomy Care.
• Range of Motion (Passive and Active).
• Foot Soak/Toenail Care.

Registered Nurse (RN) Services:

• Assist with weekly medication set up and management.
• Wound care.
• Assessment of current health status and monitoring of health. Care for on-going health conditions is done is collaboration with the resident’s physician and what he or she orders for on-going care in the home.

Case Manager Visits:

• Assistance with accessing community resources and social services upon request.
• Assistance with setting up non-emergency medical transportation/scheduling to medical appointments upon request if available.

If interested in an application for senior housing, see below:

District I:

Jacob (Jake) Kalk, Senior Living Housing Manager ....................................... 320-630-2670
E-mail: jacob.kalk@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

District III:

Katie Draper, Senior Living Housing Manager .............................................. 320-515-0846
E-mail: katie.draper@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Human Services

Human Services is comprised of 5 Departments: Elder Services, Emergency Services, Family Services, Victim Services and Waivered Services. All of which have many programs within each department to provide exemplary services to our community members.

Carmen Kalk, Executive Director of Human Services ................................... 320-364-9116
E-mail: carmen.kalk@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Elder Services

Elder Services Department consists of the Social Nutrition Program, Elder/Disable Energy Program, and Elder Activities Program. The Band provide Elders with regular social activities designed to keep Elders active in their communities and continue exercise in planning and managing their own lives. The Elder Services Director also advocates on the Mille Lacs Band Elder’s behalf working with the Elders by referring them to other agencies for assistance should the Elder Services or MLBO programs be unable to assist them.

Denise Sargent, Elder Services Director ..................................................... 320-532-7854
E-mail: denise.sargent@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Elder Energy Assistance Program

The Band assists with the application process for the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program, which provides energy assistance, crises, energy-related repairs, Reach Out for Warmth, and weatherization services for Band member households located in the seven counties of Mille Lacs, Crow Wing, Aitkin, Pine, Kanabec, Sherburne, and Morrison. Band members who live outside these counties can contact their local community action program or contact the Band’s office for the local service provider. Band Elders and disabled Band members who have exhausted the State Energy Assistance Program are eligible for the Elder/Disabled Energy Assistance Program.

Doreen Mitchell, Elder Energy Account Specialist ....................................... 320-532-7543
E-mail: doreen.mitchell@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Elder Nutrition Program

The Elder Nutrition Program provides group dining and home-delivered noon meals to disabled Elders. Group dining is offered at the DI & DIII Senior Living Units and DII & DIIa Community Centers.

Denise Sargent, Elder Services Director ..................................................... 320-532-7854
E-mail: denise.sargent@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Elder Activities Program

The Elder Activities Coordinator provides Elders with regular social activities designed to keep Elders active in their communities and continue exercise in planning and managing their own lives.

Dianne Hamilton, Activities Program Coordinator ....................................... 320-532-7853
E-mail: dianne.hamilton@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Emergency Services

Emergency Services Department consist of Food Distribution on Indian Reservation (FDPIR) Program, Emergency Services Loan Program, Food Shelf Program.

Dean Reynolds, Emergency Services Director............................................. 320-362-4672
E-mail: dean.reynolds@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)

The Mille Lacs Band is a service provider of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations as an alternative to food stamps for Native American households. The program provides food packages rather than coupons or cards, and serves eligible Band members located in Mille Lacs, Crow Wing, Pine, Aitkin, Kanabec, and Sherburne counties (excluding households located in larger cities with populations greater than 10,000 people).

Daniel Boyd, FDPIR Warehouse Supervisor ................................................ 320-532-7880
E-mail: daniel.boyd2@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Blayn Roy, Food Distribution Clerk ............................................................ 320-532-7880
E-mail: blayn.roy@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Aiyanna Weyaus, Food Distribution Program Aide ...................................... 320-532-7880
E-mail: aiyanna.weyaus@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Food Shelf Program

The Mille Lacs Band Food Shelf Program provides food packages rather than coupons or cards and serves eligible Band members. The program assists Band members in all districts.

Dean Reynolds, Emergency Services Director............................................. 320-362-4672
E-mail: dean.reynolds@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Food Shelf Warehouse Aide ...................................................................... 320-532-7880

Emergency Services Loan Program

The Mille Lacs Band Emergency Services Loan Program provides limited financial assistance in the form of loans to Band members living anywhere in the United States. The purpose of this program is to ensure that Band members experiencing unforeseen emergencies have access to a financial resource of last resort. Covered emergencies include utility emergencies, eviction/rent emergencies, fire/natural disaster emergencies, medical/funeral emergencies, and clothing for clients exiting a treatment facility or a correctional facility.

Crystal Evans, Emergency Services Account Specialist ............................... 320-532-7800
E-mail: crystal.evans@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Linda Moses, Emergency Services Account Specialist ................................. 320-532-7800
E-mail: linda.moses@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

James Caza, Emergency Services Account Specialist.................................. 320-532-7800
E-mail: james.caza@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

After hours:

Dean Reynolds, Emergency Services Director............................................. 320-362-4672
E-mail: dean.reynolds@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Family Services

The Family Services Department provides child protection services and family preservation to Band children and families who reside in the identified service areas. Family Services consists of the following programs: Investigation Program, Child Protection Services Program, Independent Living Skills Program, Family Preservation Program, and Foster Care Program.

Rachel Shaugobay, Director of Family Services.............................................320-630-5798
E-mail: rachel.shaugobay2@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Kristina Abear, Office Manager.....................................................................320-532-1722
E-mail: kristina.abear@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Investigations

The Investigation program includes Investigators and Intake and Referral Specialist. The Intake and Referral Specialist collect information from mandated reporters and concerned community members who suspect child abuse, neglect, or maltreatment. Once information is collected it goes to a screen team of child protection professionals who weigh numerous factors to determine necessary actions. Investigators conduct in-depth investigations/family assessments on screened-in reports. Staff members also provide referrals on behalf of clients to internal and external agencies to meet the specific needs of each client.

Terri Fronk, Lead Investigator.......................................................................320-364-9229
E-mail: terri.fronk@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Erikkah Skog, Intake Referral Specialist........................................................320-532-1725
E-mail: mlbo.fsintake@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Child Protection Services

The Child Protection Services Program provides ongoing child welfare case management to Band members, first-generation descendants, and Native Americans within the Band’s designated service area through our Tribal Court. The case management team includes the Child Protection Supervisor, Lead Social Workers, Social Workers, and ICWA Family Support Aides. The team works with youth and families to address barriers with the goal of successful reunification of children with their parents. Our urban office team works with families outside of the Band’s designated service area who are eligible under the Indian Child Welfare Act and Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act. This team of social workers is housed in the Urban office, and they have cases throughout Minnesota and the United States. This dedicated team of Social Workers ensure ICWA and MIFPA are followed while also providing cultural resources. The Band’s Office of the Solicitor General determines eligibility on these cases. The Child Protection Services Program also collaborates with the Healing to Wellness Court program.

Abigail Waaraniemi, Lead Social Worker.......................................................320-674-0236
E-mail: abigail.waaraniemi@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Judi Helmin, Lead Social Worker..................................................................320-630-4272
E-mail: judi.helmin@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Independent Living Skills Program

The Independent Living Skills Program (ILS) assists current and former foster care youth to achieve self-sufficiency by providing training, independent living skills, support, and financial assistance. Each youth works with the Youth Transitions Coordinator to develop their own unique case plan, based off their individual goals, needs and interests. Common examples include obtaining a driver’s license, learning how to grocery shop and prepare meals, building healthy social relationships, and help obtaining housing and signing up for college or job training. The program assists those that are 14 to 21 years of age who live within the designated service area of the band.

Lynn Hudson, Youth Transition Coordinator..................................................320-362-4354
E-mail: lynn.hudson@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Family Preservation Program

The Family Preservation Program is new and evolving. We currently have a Family Preservation Program Manager and in 2025 we are hiring additional support staff to serve families. This voluntary program connects parents with the tools, supports, referrals and case management services they need to keep their children safely at home. The goal of Family Preservation is to support families in being healthy, stable, and self-sufficient. With the addition of Family Preservation, we are now able to support families who are having issues with school attendance but have not reached the level of a Truancy case. In time, we will offer educational, training, awareness and enrichment activities to the community that center around cultural teachings and family strengths. There will be more information shared about this program in the coming months.

John Niederhaus, Family Preservation Program Manager...............................320-674-0715
E-mail: john.niederhaus@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Foster Care Program

The Foster Care Program licenses and trains foster care providers within the Band’s designated service area. Any Native American or community member with strong ties to the Band may apply to become a licensed foster care provider. The Licensor/Recruiters will work through the process of becoming licensed with those that would like to become a Mille Lacs Band Foster Care licensed home. Our foster homes are visited monthly by their assigned Licensor/Recruiter, these visits allow us to ensure the safety of each foster home. Each Licensor/Recruiter works directly with licensed homes to offer ongoing support and training opportunities.

Kristina Abear, Office Manager.....................................................................320-532-1722
E-mail: kristina.abear@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Victim Services

Victim Services is dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by general crime, abuse, and trauma. The department provides advocacy, resources, and education to empower victim/survivors and promote healing, safety, and resilience. Victim Services program’s address a broad spectrum of needs, ranging from immediate crisis intervention to ongoing care and assistance, while maintaining a survivor-centered and culturally informed perspective. Victim Services Department consist of Sexual Assault Program, Victims of Crime Program, Domestic Abuse Transformation Program (DATP), Shelter Program, Elder Abuse Program, Safe Harbor Tribal Reginal Navigator Program, and Child Advocacy Center Program (CAC).

Kristen Allord, Victim Services Director ...................................................... 320-532-7793
E-mail: kristen.allord@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

24-Hour Crisis Line…………………………………………………………………866-867-4006

Sexual Assault Program

Supports survivors of sexual violence through advocacy, counseling, and resources, helping them navigate medical, legal, and emotional recovery while promoting healing and empowerment.

Sonja Jensen, Sexual Assault Program Coordinator .................................... 320-630-2691
E-mail: sonja.jensen@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Victims of Crime Program

Offers resources and assistance to individuals affected by crime, including guidance through the legal process and referrals to other services that may be needed.

Melissa Sanvig, Victims of Crime Coordinator ............................................ 320-364-3568
E-mail: melissa.sanvig@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Domestic Abuse Transformation Program (DATP)

DATP is designed for offenders, whether court-ordered or voluntarily enrolled, focusing on accountability for their actions and fostering healthier relationships. Through education and self-reflection, participants explore the impact of their behavior, learn non-violent communication skills, and develop tools to build respectful and supportive relationships. The program emphasizes personal responsibility and creating positive change to break the cycle of abuse.

Kristen Allord, Victim Services Director……………………………………………320-532-7793
E-mail: kristen.allord@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Shelter Program

Offers safe, temporary housing for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, along with their families, providing a secure and supportive space to start rebuilding their lives. The program offers resources and advocacy to individuals, including guidance through the legal process and referrals to other services that may be needed.

Vicki Flor-Behrens, Shelter Manager……………………………………………….320-630-2191
E-mail: vicki.flor-behrens@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Elder Abuse Program

Addresses the unique challenges faced by older victims of abuse, providing advocacy and resources to promote safety and dignity.

Kristen Allord, Victim Services Director ...................................................... 320-630-7666
E-mail: kristen.allord@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Safe Harbor Tribal Regional Navigator Program

Provide support and services to youth who may have experienced trafficking or sexual exploitation. Efforts center on assisting survivors of human trafficking through personalized advocacy, comprehensive support services, and educational outreach within the community.

Sonja Jensen, Sexual Assault Program Coordinator………………………………...320-630-2691
E-mail: sonja.jensen@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Child Advocacy Center Program

Supports children and families impacted by abuse through a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring trauma-informed care and justice.

Marie Stobb, CAC Coordinator .................................................................. 320-362-4968
E-mail: marie.stobb@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Waivered Services Department

Waivered Services department’s mission statement is “Promote and advocate for our vulnerable adult community members to have the supports and services to stay living in our communities. We acknowledge the importance of community, having cultural understanding and awareness allows our department to make positive changes in our community. Waivered Services consists of Medicaid Waiver Enrollment, Ramp Lending Program, Device Checkout Program,Elder Text Alert Program, and Adult Guardianship Program.

Jennifer Ballinger, Waivered Services Relations Liaison Manager ................. 320-362-0027
E-mail: j.ballinger@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Shelly Day, Waivered Services Benefits Coordinator ................................... 320-362-1914
E-mail: shelly.day@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Julie Skinaway-Fineday, Waivered Services Support Aide ............................ 320-630-7573
E-mail: julie.skinaway@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Micheala Leecy, Waivered Services Support Aide ....................................... 320-630-5860
E-mail: micheala.leecy@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Sharon Raisch, Waivered Services Support Aide………………………………….320-532-7850
E-mail: sharon.raisch@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Medicaid Waiver Enrollment Assistance Program

A Medicaid Waiver is an add-on to your medical assistance health insurance that allows you to access more home and community-based services and supports.We have dedicated staff that works with you to fully understand what the program isall about and assists you to complete the necessary paperwork to the county you live in. Our staff advocates for you and clearly explains all the information, so you can make the best decision for yourself.

Ramp Lending Program

This started out of community need. With being awarded a specific grant we have been able to purchase a Lego set of ramp segments that are stored and ready to be deployed when we get an urgent call that someone needs this to come back home safely, maybe from an injury. This was made possible with the collaboration of
MLBO Community Development Department, as they install and store the ramps.

Device Checkout Program

There are 3 types of tablets to borrow. One is like a mini laptop, another is like an iPhone, and the last one is like an Android phone. All 3 are available as needed for our clients to borrow and have Verizon cell services on them. You can check them out to allow you to do telehealth appointments, socialize with friends and family, watch videos, complete paperwork, or even play games. This program was sparked during COVID when social isolation was at an all-time high.

Elder Text Program

As many of you know sometimes it is hard to know what is going on in our communities. Maybe you don’t use social media or have a hard time getting to community meetings or the community centers to see flyers. We hope this form of communication has allowed you to feel more engaged with your community and to ask questions about the information we send out. Every month a group of us meet and list out what will be sent via text message for the month ahead to elders who voluntarily shared their phone numbers with us. This is also used to notify of urgent changes to a day or event. This program is in collaboration with the Elder Services Department. Please reach out to us or Elder Services Department to add your phone number.

Adult Guardianship Program

The Adult Guardianship Program is a program that oversees our court ordered adult guardianships of Mille Lacs Band members. The clients we assist are all in a more stable situation personally and financially. The clients in this program still have choices in their daily lives. The program supports them by being their accountants, providing transportation to go shopping, out to eat, and attend events. Some of our clients who are working in sheltered employment settings giving them an opportunity to be productive and get out into the communities that they live in. This also gives them an opportunity to have some extra spending money.

Peter Charpentier, Guardianship Social Worker Supervisor ......................... 320-292-2283
E-mail: peter.charpentier@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Christine Kegwedose, Elder Disability Support Worker ................................ 320-292-0344
E-mail: christine.kegg@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov

Ann Nickaboine, Elder Disability Support Worker ........................................ 320-362-1213
E-mail: ann.nickaboine@hhs.millelacsband-nsn.gov