Tribal Council authorized a 2026 Winter Food and Utility Security Program to promote the general welfare of Stockbridge-Munsee tribal members due to high food prices and utility costs, particularly during heating seasons. The goal of this Program is to assist eligible SMC Members to maintain their health, well-being, independence, and quality of life despite high food and utility prices.
The 2026 Winter Food and Utility Security Program is intended for the promotion of the general welfare of tribal members and therefore is not lavish or extravagant or compensation for services. It is intended to comply with the IRS income exclusion for tribal general welfare programs (26 U.S.C. 139E) so that it is not considered taxable income.
In order to be eligible for the 2026 Winter Food and Utility Security Program you must be an Enrolled Stockbridge-Munsee tribal member 18 years and older and must submit the application for the Program.
Applications will be accepted starting January 7, 2026, with an application deadline of March 31, 2026. Tribal members will be provided a $1,500.00 payment to be used solely on groceries or utility costs to promote food and utility security during these uncertain economic times.
Additional guidance on the implementation of the program, is on the application.
Online Application – https://lfforms.mohican.com/Forms/GeneralWelfareApp
Printable Application – https://mohican-nsn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/General-Welfare.pdf
No supplemental receipts for expenses are required as applicants can self-certify that they are experiencing impacts. Processing begins as applications are received.
Forms are also available for download on the Tribal Website (News and Announcements section) and Community Announcements email.
*** Please only submit applications once, duplicate applications will slow down the process and require further follow up by the submitter****
Returning printed forms:
The Tribal Office Central Reception Area has been designated at the centralized controlled form drop off area. Forms may also be mailed to Member Services.
Drop Off:
Stockbridge Munsee Tribal Office Central Reception Member Services
N8476 MohHeConNuck Rd
Bowler, WI 54416
Mail:
Member Services
P.O. Box 70
Bowler, WI 54416
Tribal members living off reservation/out of state, who cannot access the portal, download or pick up a form, may call Member Services to request a form be mailed to them. The form must then be mailed back to the Member Services Department.
Application to apply for assistance begin January 7, 2026, with final check disbursement on March 31, 2026.
The first mailing of checks will be on Friday, January 30, 2026. Please allow 5-10 business days for your check to be delivered. A returned check listing will be kept with the Tribal Secretary’s office and will be contacted based on information provided in the application. Those individuals will be able to pick up their check with a valid ID or POA paperwork. For replacement or lost checks, a waiting period of a 30 days will be required before another is processed by the Finance Department.
Questions?
For general information or check inquiries:
Contact Member Services at (715) 793-4111
Respectfully,
Shannon Holsey
Tribal President