Cherokee Nation opening adult drug treatment center near Tahlequah

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation will break ground on a new adult drug treatment center near Tahlequah to help Cherokee citizens struggling with substance abuse.

The Cherokee Nation says the 19,000-square-foot facility will provide treatment services for drug addiction for Cherokee Nation Citizens through group and individual counseling, support services, care management and cultural activities.

"This is one of our most meaningful and needed projects," said Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. in a press release. "Under the Cherokee Nation Public Health and Wellness Fund Act, we locked down opioid settlement dollars and committed them to healing. This is the first of the capital projects that will ultimately help Cherokee citizens, families and communities heal by addressing substance abuse."

The Cherokee Nation announced plans for the treatment center to be located in the Park Hill area of Tahlequah in 2023.

The Public Health and Wellness Fund Act dedicates $100 million in settlement funds from opioid and e-cigarette lawsuits for a variety of public health programs, including $76 million for drug treatment projects.

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. will sign a proclamation to set Aug. 31 as Overdose Awareness Day in the Cherokee Nation.