Cherokee Nation Accepting 2026 Angel Project, Elder Angel Project Applications

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Cherokee Nation Angel Project is now accepting applications online through the Gadugi Portal until Nov. 6.

Eligible Cherokee Nation citizens must be registered on the tribe's online Gadugi Portal, which can be accessed at https://gadugiportal.cherokee.org/. Select "Applications" from the top blue navigation bar and select "Angel Project" from the list of available programs.

"The Elder Angel Project and Angel Project give us the opportunity to help some of our most precious citizens. These programs create a profound impact on the families and elders who may need help during the holiday season," Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said. "Everyone deserves to open gifts during the holiday season, and we hope these programs will help with that."

The Cherokee Nation Angel Project assists Cherokee children, ages 18 and under, who fall within income guidelines and reside within the Cherokee Nation Reservation. For each eligible child, $75 will be provided for their parent or guardian to purchase Christmas gifts.

For the list of income guidelines for the Angel Project, click here.

Cherokee citizens who apply for the Angel Project must provide:

• Proof of income
• Proof of residency
• Tribal citizenship card for all children (exception has been made for children age 2 and under, who will need a birth certificate or hospital birth record)

For assistance or questions about the application, call 918-453-5058 during normal business hours. For more information on the project, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The tribe is also accepting applications for the Elder Angel Project until Oct. 30. Click here for the list of locations and dates that Human Services staff will be available to assist with the application process. Elders can also visit any Cherokee Nation Human Services office to apply for the Elder Angel Project during regular business hours.

Guidelines for the Elder Angel Project include:

• Must be 60 years of age or older
• Must be a Cherokee Nation citizen
• Reside within Cherokee Nation Reservation
• Provide proof of income

For questions on the Elder Angel Project, call 918-453-5422.

The public is welcome to adopt an Elder Angel at the Human Services Family Assistance Office at the Cherokee Nation W.W. Keeler Tribal Complex in Tahlequah.

The public can also contribute to the Angel Project mission by visiting https://webapps.cherokee.org/OnlineGiving/Donations/create and clicking "Angel Project" under the "Recipient" drop down menu.