The federal government awarded Gallup, New Mexico $1.5 million for its detox center, which borders the Navajo Nation.

The Indian Health Service said Gallup will receive the five-year grant to help keep the 150-bed detox center open.

Na’nizhoozhi Center Inc. Detox has struggled with both public and private funding over the last several years. Last year it was funded for the first time in four years.

City officials recently approved an annual budget of more than $1 million, freeing detox staff from having to spend time fundraising.

Even though the Navajo Nation has banned all alcohol sales, bootlegging on the reservation and liquor sales in border towns are still a reality. And alcoholism remains a major problem among tribal members.