SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, along with U.S. Congressman Nick Begich, have introduced the Southcentral Foundation Land Transfer Act of 2025 in Congress. The proposed legislation, identified as S.2098/H.R.3620, aims to transfer ownership of the Quyana Clubhouse in downtown Anchorage from the Department of Health and Human Services to the Southcentral Foundation (SCF) within two years of enactment.

The SCF is an Alaska Native tribal health organization tasked with providing healthcare services to beneficiaries of the Indian Health Service under a self-governance compact. The land transfer would enable SCF to secure financing for a new facility, expand its services, and create jobs.

Senator Murkowski emphasized SCF's long-standing role in delivering essential healthcare services in Alaska: “For more than 40 years, Southcentral Foundation has provided vital health care services in Alaska by supporting the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional wellness of Alaska Natives and American Indians.” She added that transferring land ownership would support self-determination and improve access to culturally relevant services.

Senator Sullivan highlighted the importance of SCF's work through initiatives like Quyana Clubhouse: "Southcentral Foundation serves the behavioral health care needs of thousands of Alaska Native people." He expressed his support for empowering SCF to continue its innovative approach to mental health treatment.

Congressman Begich noted that this legislation would help secure investment for modernized healthcare facilities: “This legislation delivers land title status needed to secure investment for modernized healthcare facilities - facilities that will allow Southcentral Foundation to address treatment more comprehensively.”

April Kyle, President and CEO of Southcentral Foundation, appreciated the delegation's efforts: “Transferring the parcel of federal land where SCF currently operates the Quyana Clubhouse will clear the way to build a new facility that expands capacity.” She mentioned that this move would enhance SCF’s ability to assist those with chronic mental health and substance use challenges.