HELPING ELDERS TODAY & TOMORROW
Jun 29, 2026
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
For more than two decades, the Mille Lacs Band Elder Supplemental Program has provided financial support to eligible Elders, helping with everyday expenses while allowing recipients the flexibility to use the benefit in whatever way best meets their needs. Funded through a special endowment established by Band leaders more than 20 years ago, the program was designed not only to serve Elders today, but to remain available for future generations as well.
The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Elder Supplemental Program provides a monthly benefit payment that is electronically deposited into an Elder's designated account. Similar to a Social Security payment from the federal government, this benefit comes directly from the Mille Lacs Band.
Elders who wish to participate must complete an application and provide supporting documentation. Applications can be picked up in person at the Government Center in Onamia, or Elders may request an application by emailing John.Mojica@ millelacsband.com.
Elders may return completed applications in person, by email, or through the United States Postal Service. There currently is not a fillable form available online; however, that option is being considered for the future. The address to mail the application is 43408 Oodena Drive, Onamia, MN 56359.
Once an application is received, an interview is conducted and any additional information needed to complete the file is requested.
"Not everyone is approved due to the income limit, and interviews are conducted via phone or in person for the purpose of reviewing the information provided in the application," said John Mojica, Self Governance Coordinator and Elder Supplemental Income Program Coordinator. "Once the interview is complete, I will ask for any follow up information submitted by the Elder in order to continue processing the application. The time needed to complete processing can vary due to the submission of the follow-up items."
After all required documentation is received, the application is processed and submitted for final approval.
Every two years, the Elders in the program must update their information. This entails updating their address, their income, and providing a copy of their Tribal ID. There is no additional application to fill out, but updating the information is critical to continue receiving benefits. That is the only requirement, and the Elders are notified via letter each January.
If an Elder does not update their file, they will no longer receive benefit payments from the program. In some cases, participants may become ineligible for the program due to changes in their living situation, including entering a nursing home, as outlined in program policies. In 2005, Band Assembly passed an ordinance addressing nursing home residency and disability-related eligibility considerations. Under current policy, Elders who enter a nursing home are no longer eligible for the program. Individuals who are determined to be disabled may qualify, provided they meet all other program requirements.
The monthly benefit is currently $735.72 and is electronically deposited into the Elder's designated account on the second Friday of each month. Each year there is a cost-of-living increase, which mirrors the rate utilized by the Social Security Administration. This program is operated under the General Welfare Exclusion Act and is not considered income, but rather a benefit for Elders who qualify.
More than two decades ago, Band leaders created the endowment with a simple goal: to provide lasting support for Mille Lacs Band Elders. Because the fund continues to generate interest and grow over time, that vision remains in place today, helping ensure the Elder Supplemental Program can continue serving Elders for generations to come.