Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Policy

Congress declares it  in the policy of the nation to protect the best interests of the Indian Children and to promote the stability and security of Indian Tribes and families by the establishment of minimum Federal standards for the removal of Indian Children from their families and the placement of such children in foster or adoptive homes, which will reflect the unique values of Indian Culture, and by providing for assistance to Indian tribes in the operation of child and family services program.  This confidential service is available through the Native Village of Port Lions under the Tribal Family Service Coordinator.

Title VI

• Senior Citizens Cook - Charlene Kewan
• Senior Citizens Cook's Assistant- Karen Eggers
• Delivery Person -Roxanne McGavern

The Title VI program serves the Senior Citizen population of Port Lions and is a very important aspect of our services. Three delicious meals are prepared each week by Charlene. Meals can either be served at the Tribal building or they may be delivered to individual homes, which some folks often choose.

This program has been very successful with 30-35 Seniors taking part. In cooperation with the Kodiak Area Native Association, (KANA) other needs are met such as ice creepers for winter when snow and ice cover much of the roads. KANA has also provided the Seniors with exercise equipment which is located at the Tribal building as well.

Preschool ~ Teacher - Marlene Gundersen

The Port Lions Preschool is also located in the Tribal building and songs like the Alphabet Song and the Teensy Weensy Spider have been heard in the halls since 1980. Many former graduates still live in Port Lions and are now sending their own preschoolers to attend classes with 'Miss Teacher' Marlene. The children spend two-three hours a day, depending on their ages, with 'Teacher' learning the days of the week, months of the year and very importantly, how to write their names.

A graduation ceremony is held every May for those who are furthering their education at the 'Big School.'  A reception is held after the last chorus of 'Pomp and Circumstance' is played with cake, cookies and presents for all the graduates.