Winnebago Injury Prevention Project Summary

The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, through its Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System division, received a $149,999 cooperative agreement awarded January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2030, under the Injury Prevention Program for American Indians and Alaskan Natives Cooperative Agreements (CFDA 93.284), funded by the Indian Health Service. This Part 1 component award supports the development of injury prevention capacity through hiring and establishing a full-time injury prevention coordinator position to address unintentional injuries affecting tribal elders and children.

The project delivers three integrated injury prevention services: (1) senior fall prevention services including home safety assessments, environmental modifications, balance screening and classes, and vision and medication reviews conducted in collaboration with Twelve Clans Unity Hospital and the WCHS Senior Center; (2) child passenger safety services through certification and training of community-based Child Passenger Safety Technicians to lead car seat check events, distribute car seats, and provide education to caregivers; and (3) an emerging issues component that incorporates community feedback to address evolving injury prevention priorities. The initiative emphasizes culturally grounded, community-based strategies that integrate traditional Winnebago values with evidence-based prevention practices to reduce injury-related morbidity and mortality among tribal members.