We want to thank our community here in Seattle and nationwide for all the support they have shown during this pandemic and in connection with the recent incident where we received supplies we were not expecting.  

While waiting for more COVID-19 tests and personal protective equipment (PPE), we received a box of body bags. We do not know how or why we received them. SIHB is a clinic, not a hospital, so we have no use for them.  

We acknowledge that this could have been a mistake, but the incident is representative of the problems tribal and urban Indian communities are encountering to acquire the resources necessary to address this pandemic. 

This does not deter us, in any way, from continuing to provide the care and services for our community during this pandemic. We are fortunate to have the supplies we need at the moment, but we know there are other Native communities throughout the country who don’t, and we will continue to advocate for their needs as well. 

We are a strong and resilient community, and we will continue to support Native people everywhere. Thank you again for all of your support.