Stilwell resident Marcella Sams is as proud of her new home as she is of the family photo quilt that adorns her bedroom wall.

Stilwell Senior Housing was recently dedicated. A town of some 2600 people, Stilwell is about an hour east of Tulsa near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border.

Residents enjoy a spacious dining room.

Marcella's new home is the Stilwell Senior Housing, a 40-unit complex that was recently dedicated during a ceremony attended by members of the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation and other local officials.

"This is a shining example of what teamwork can accomplish," said Mayor Reggy Cox at the dedication. "This meets a need that we've had in this community for a long time."

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith joined the mayor in applauding the teamwork that went into the complex. "This new development was very innovative and a little bit daring, but anything for our elderly is worth the risk," he said. "After touring Mrs. Sams' apartment and seeing her family history quilt, that is worth the weeks of work to see our elders served."

Stilwell Senior Housing improves the quality of life in a poor area. Residents enjoy a community atmosphere and the company of others.

"We need more of these," said State Representative Jim Wilson. "The HACN, through its partnerships with the City of Stilwell, Cherokee Affordable Housing, Inc., and Cherokee Nation allowed us to apply for the tax credits for this elderly development. Without any one of these partners, the Stilwell Senior Housing would not have happened."

Applicants must be 62 or older and meet certain income restrictions. The units, all handicapped-equipped, are open to the public. All eligible elderly Cherokees will be helped with their rent by the HACN's Rental Assistance Program. The Stilwell Senior Housing is an equal opportunity housing development, which means that Indian preference does not apply.

The library offers a quiet refuge.	Marcella is especially proud of her family photo quilt.