Molly Wendland

As the newest federally recognized tribe, the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians of Montana is starting from scratch to deliver health care to members. While COVID-19 has been devastating, it has sped up the tribe's ability to build a clinic. Yet, lacking a reservation, the tribe faces challenges reaching its scattered members.

The United States recognized the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians as a sovereign nation just one year ago this week. Next year, the tribe will work with the federal Indian Health Service to open its own tribal health clinic.