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Marshall Pierite
Social Services Director
Debbie Johnson
Transportation Coordinator
Betty Logan
RSW Social Worker
Lisa Barbry
Social Services Rep.
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The Tunica-Biloxi Social Service
Department has been extremely busy during
the early fall months. Our current staff
includes Marshall Pierite, Janine
Quebedeaux, Lisa Barbry, Evelyn Cass,
Betty Logan, Debbie Johnson, and Jean
Allen-Wilson. Several events were held
during this time period. Activities include:
. Bingo - An elder bingo was held on
October 12th with 25 in attendance. The
social service department prepared a
gumbo supper and several delicious
deserts were provided by Janice Lopez,
Jeannie Lopez, and Becky Wambsgans.
Vice-Chairman Marshall Pierite, and
Council Member Brenda Lintinger also
attended.
. An elder trip to Cypress Bayou
Casino was planned for Nov.9th and also
upon returning, everyone was invited to a
dinner at Legend's.
. Elder Meals - These are continuing
to be delivered by Social Services. There
are now 28 participants receiving daily
meals.
. Transportation - This service is
provided for all tribal elders, tribal members
without transportation and children
within the foster care system.
. Medical - Appointments for tribal
youth are set if necessary for preventative
and supportive care. The Social Services
nurse monitors and supports the health
and medical status of all foster care youth.
. Counseling - The social services
department offers counseling services to
all tribal members. There are currently two
social workers who work within this department.
Parenting education is another
avenue that is being pursued to offer to all
tribal adults in the near future. Regular
home visits are continued to monitor the
conditions of all tribal foster children.
Future Endeavors of the Social Services Department
A tribal youth group will also be formed for children ages 7-17 to
become involved within community
projects, area events, and
promotion of tribal events to
youth within the parish.
CPR/First Aid Training will be
offered to all participating youth.
The department is also
working closely with the Inter-
Tribal Council of Baton Rouge
on a new youth program,
"Project Venture".
Elder activities will be
planned on a bi-monthly basis.
The Social Service
department will continue to
assist tribal members with referrals
to various organizations
such as local schools, legal
offices, therapeutic agencies,
and rehabilitation facilities.
The department is also
conducting a survey with all tribal
elders to assess the need for
an assisted living facility on the
reservation.
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe
Social Services Department is
excited to have been able to
offer these events to youth,
adults, and elders. We look forward
to coordinating future
events and networking with the
community to encourage cooperation
and growth for tribal
members. We encourage anyone
who has additional ideas or
suggestions to please let us
know so we will be better able
to serve the tribal community.
