SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich., April 20, 2026 – Molina Healthcare of Michigan (“Molina”), in collaboration with the Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation (“MolinaCares”), announced a $25,000 donation to the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan to purchase culturally relevant resources to enhance the engagement and well-being of Tribal members receiving behavioral health services. The grant aims to address disproportionate rates of substance abuse, suicide, and depression.
The Council used the MolinaCares grant to purchase smudge kits, The Seven Grandfather Teachings workbooks, Wellbriety books, beaded key ring and earing kits, and dream catcher kits. Amongst the 12 federally recognized tribes with over 1,000 items were distributed. The proposed materials will directly support individuals participating in cognitive therapy, counseling, case management, inpatient and outpatient treatment, psychiatric care, and recovery or transitional housing programs. By integrating these culturally grounded resources, behavioral health providers can create meaningful opportunities to promote healing, self-expression and cultural connection.
“I would like to extend our gratitude to Molina Healthcare of Michigan and MolinaCares for their generous grant to the Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan,” said Clayton Kincheloe, executive director of Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan. “This investment is both meaningful and impactful, as it advances our mission to improve the economy, education, and quality of life for Michigan’s Native Americans. Partnerships like this are vital to ensure that the information and services provided are not only effective, but also culturally respectful and relevant.”
“Molina and MolinaCares are committed to closing health gaps for traditionally underserved communities, and this grant supports the critical services for populations disproportionately affected by behavioral health concerns,” said Terrisca Des Jardins, plan president of Molina Healthcare of Michigan. “By providing culturally appropriate materials, we are meeting individuals where they are, removing barriers to supports needed to improve overall wellness.”
About Molina Healthcare of Michigan
Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc. provides government-funded, quality health care, serving members through Medicaid, Medicare, and Marketplace programs in Michigan. Through its locally operated health plans, Molina Healthcare, Inc., a Fortune 500 company, provides managed health care services under the Medicaid and Medicare programs, and through state insurance marketplaces. For more information about Molina Healthcare of Michigan, visit MolinaHealthcare.com.
About The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation
The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) established in 2020 by Molina Healthcare, Inc. The Molina Healthcare Charitable Foundation was created to improve the health and well-being of disadvantaged populations by funding meaningful, measurable, and innovative programs and solutions that improve health, life, and living in local communities.
About The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan
The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan, Inc. is a 501(C)3 non-profit corporation duly organized under a state charter filed April 16, 1968. The agency represents all twelve federally recognized tribes in Michigan. The agency is divided into several different divisions, including headstart; early headstart; health services; behavioral health; environmental services; child, family, and education services; and administration. The agency employs approximately 160 employees. 35 of these employees are based in the agency’s central office in Sault Ste. Marie, while member tribes have offices and staff on site. Visit https://www.itcmi.org/ to learn more about the agency.