Pfizer donates $750,000 to tribal health centers in Oklahoma

Global pharmaceutical company Pfizer Inc. is donating $750,000 to bolster tribal health care services in Oklahoma, with three Indigenous-operated clinics set to receive funding.

The one-time philanthropic gift will be distributed evenly, with each facility receiving $250,000: the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic, the Cherokee Nation Outpatient Health Center, and the Osage Nation Wahzhazhe Health Center.

Supporting Tribal Health Systems

State and tribal leaders gathered to celebrate the contribution, calling it a meaningful step toward improving healthcare access and outcomes for Indigenous communities.

Rep. Ajay Pittman, co-chair of the Native American Caucus, praised the donation as a sign of progress in public-private partnerships.

“I am honored to work alongside Pfizer and our tribal leaders to bring critical investments directly into our Indigenous healthcare systems,” Pittman said. “I believe this is just the beginning of what we can accomplish when public leaders and private partners unite to prioritize dignity and access for all Oklahomans.”

A Stronger Healthcare Future

Rep. Ken Luttrell, also a co-chair of the caucus, echoed the importance of collaborative efforts to sustain tribal health programs.

“Partnerships like this help strengthen the healthcare infrastructure that our people rely on, and they reflect the power of collaboration in achieving lasting, positive change,” Luttrell said.

Tribal officials shared how the funding will be put to use in ways that reflect their cultural values and pressing needs.

Cultural Healing and Community Support

For the Osage Nation, the funding goes beyond infrastructure.

“This philanthropic donation will significantly impact our efforts to make Osage Nation a healthier place for all community members,” said Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear.

Mark Rogers, CEO of the Osage Nation Health System, said the money will help support both clinical and cultural programming, especially for those recovering from substance abuse.

“We’ll be able to provide higher quality programs that incorporate cultural crafting, sweat ceremonies, traditional songs, and community inclusion through storytelling and dance,” Rogers said.

Workforce and Training Enhancements

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said the gift will allow for new staff training initiatives and development opportunities at their outpatient center.

“This support helps us continue building a strong, responsive health workforce to meet the needs of our citizens,” Hoskin said.