DURANT, OK – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma awarded a total of $108,900 to Le Flore County communities including $41,000 to Le Flore County itself; $17,800 to the City of Heavener; $34,700 to the City of Poteau; and $15,400 to the City of Pocola from the Choctaw Community Partnership Fund to continue strengthening and developing the local area.
The Choctaw Community Partnership Fund voluntarily contributes quarterly to towns, cities, and counties where the Choctaw Nation operates non-gaming businesses. The fund aims to foster collaboration and growth within these communities by providing financial support for various projects. The communities have the flexibility to utilize the funds immediately for maintenance, road improvements, beautification, recreation, public safety, equipment needs or save the funds for more extensive future projects.
“These volunteer contributions exemplify the Choctaw Nation’s commitment to creating sustainable and thriving communities that fosters a better quality of life for tribal and non-tribal citizens,” said Angel Rowland, Choctaw Nation Development Fund Manager. “We see communities investing these funds for projects that positively impact the area.”
Since 2019, when the Community Partnership Fund started, LeFlore County has received $528,900 and used funds for street repairs. The City of Heavener has received $252,250 and has invested the funds in park upgrades and fire management equipment. The City of Poteau has received $445,300 and has used the funds for park upgrades. The City of Pocola has received $176,900 and has invested in municipal park upgrades.
Since the inception of this program, the Choctaw Nation has contributed a combined $8.2 million to communities that operate non-gaming businesses.