Wintun tribe makes donation to HforH

$1 million was to be offered on 'Today Show'

By Democrat staff (Daily Democrat)

The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians and United Auburn Indian Community were scheduled today to present Habitat for Humanity $1 million for relief efforts in the Gulf region.

The presentation, made by tribal chairwomen Paula Lorenzo of the Rumsey Tribe and Jessica Tavares of United Auburn, was made today on "The Today Show."

"The Today Show" is joining forces with Habitat for Humanity and Warner Music Group to help the Gulf Coast rebuild. During this week Rockefeller Plaza in New York City will become "Humanity Plaza" as homes are built around the clock for five days for families displaced by Hurricane Katrina.

In October 2000, the Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians, owners and operators of Cache Creek Casino Resort established a philanthropic branch of tribal government - the Rumsey Community Fund - that provides up to $1 million annually to strengthen regional programs and services in Yolo County and surrounding areas. To date, Rumsey had given more than $7 million in charitable contributions.

The United Auburn Indian Community, owners of Thunder Valley Casino, created the philanthropic Community Giving Program in March 2004.

This branch of tribal government provides up to $1 million annual to nonprofit organizations supporting needs in education, health, arts and humanities, environment, community development and social services. The program has given more then $2 million to date.

The tribes are federally recognized Indian tribes and considered sovereign governments. They receive no tax advantage for making a charitable donation.