NOT A HAND OUT BUT A HAND UP
The Native American Heritage Association (NAHA) is dedicated to providing vital assistance to Native American families living in some of the most economically challenged regions of the Northern Plains. Our programs address essential needs, from warmth during brutal winters to emergency resources for medical travel and nutritional support. Each program is crafted to uplift Native American communities through direct, meaningful aid that honors and respects cultural traditions while offering life-saving support.
Your donation helps us keep these essential programs running and expanding to reach more individuals in need. Please explore the many ways to give below and join us in making a lasting impact. Together, we can bring hope and support to Native American families.
Our Programs
Clothing Program
Our Clothing Program at NAHA helps meet essential needs by providing clean, gently used clothing, shoes, and household items to Native American families on reservations. With the help of generous donors, we distribute an average of 25,000 pounds of clothing each month—entirely free of charge. These donations make a significant impact, bringing warmth and relief to communities facing economic hardship.
Food Program
Hunger and food insecurity affect many Native American families on Sioux Reservations. Through our Food Program, NAHA provides consistent deliveries of nutritious food to the Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Pine Ridge, Cheyenne River, and Rosebud Reservations. In partnership with Orphan Grain Train and with the support of generous donors, we distribute essential supplies that help families maintain health and dignity.
Operation Winter Rescue
Operation Winter Rescue provides life-saving heat to Native American families on the Rosebud and Pine Ridge Reservations during the harsh Northern Plains winters. With temperatures plummeting and many homes lacking insulation, NAHA supplies small heating stoves and propane to keep at least one room at a safe temperature, ensuring families—especially children and elders—are protected from the cold.
Toy Program
Every holiday season, NAHA’s Toy Program delivers joy and hope to Native American children across reservations. With the support of our generous donors, we provide toys that bring smiles and holiday cheer to families who otherwise might not experience the magic of Christmas. Each gift, whether a gently used toy or a donation, helps us make the holidays brighter for these communities. Help spread joy this season—be a part of NAHA’s Toy Program.
Emergency Voucher Program
Our Emergency Voucher Program provides life-saving support to Native American families facing urgent needs. By offering vouchers for gas, food, and heating, we help those without transportation or resources access essential medical care, nutrition, and warmth. With each voucher, we bring hope to families in crisis, ensuring they can meet their most basic needs.
Winter Life-Guard Program
Winter gear is often a luxury rather than a necessity. Through NAHA’s Winter Life-Guard Program, we aim to provide essential warmth to hundreds of school-aged children from Sioux Reservations. This vital support helps families purchase coats, sweaters, shoes, mittens, and more, safeguarding children from harsh temperatures and ensuring they can attend school safely.
Life on the Reservation
"It has been truly wonderful to see all of the Native American students you have helped this past semester with your generous contributions. I have seen many good things happen. These students may not have been able to make it through some very difficult times which, without your generous contributions, may have prevented them from succeeding."