“Summer Clothing” and Program Updates

It’s finally warming up on the Rez which everyone had been hoping for after the cold and snowy winter they had to endure.  The Rez has had  snowstorms in May before so winter could make a comeback but at least signs of spring are in the air. 

Sew For Kids and LFC partner groups were busy in January and February making or purchasing clothing items for three baby programs, Bright Start and Maggie’s House on Pine Ridge and RST Maternal and Child Health on Rosebud Reservation.  Lakota Friends Circle sends each of these baby programs monthly shipments of diapers, wipes, and formula for babies and toiletries and sanitary items for both moms and babies.  These shipments are made possible through your generous monthly donations to SFK’s baby fund at Lakota Friends Circle.  Please consider helping moms and babies by becoming a monthly donor to SFK’s Baby Fund at Lakota Friends Circle here.  Occasional donations to the program are certainly welcomed and much appreciated too.  

Many young moms live at home with their parents and are eligible to receive WIC and food stamps, but neither can be used to purchase toiletries and diapers and WIC does not provide enough formula to feed babies for the month.  Children are dependent upon parents to care for them but if they don’t have the resources they just simply do without.  This adds more stress to the already stressful life of living on the Rez leading many to substance abuse which also leads to child abuse and neglect.  All three baby programs were so thankful for the beautiful donations our groups sent over the past two months.  You can continue to send donations to them throughout the year. 

Marty Indian Elementary students in grades 3-5 assembled a dried soup mix and decorated a jar to hold it for each student to take home to their families as a gift for Valentine’s Day.  The ingredients were purchased by members of Sew For Kids.  Students celebrated Valentine’s Day with a party in their classrooms and are currently enjoying their Spring Break.  Testing will begin after students return to school.            

Gather Our Children Home, a safe haven for abused and neglected children, has just 4 residents because they’re having trouble placing   one of the children who is aggressive and poses a risk to younger children.  They do care for babies overnight for CPS but they are usually placed with a relative rather quickly.  They want to accept younger children but due to the current situation they have 3 teens over the age of 12 with special permission from the state.  Some children have to be placed in another facility in the State if no home can be found locally.  The staff has been working with the aggressive child and making some positive changes with behavior so hopefully a placement can be found soon.  When kids leave the home for foster care, they send them off with a bag packed full of your generous gifts containing clothing for a week, diapers, formula, toiletries, wipes, and lotion for babies/toddlers and a favorite toy, book, clothing and a blanket for the older children.  These items help foster families out until they have time to buy supplies.  Some of the foster moms still need occasional help with diapers and are provided by the home made possible with your donations to LFC.   

Maggie’s House has 6 clients, 3 men and 3 women, who will reside in the facility and learn life skills.  They currently have a total of 30 clients needing help but the director chose the 6 who were homeless and most in need of help to live in the home, the others will be assisted on an outpatient basis.  Pauletta is teaching expectant mothers (many are older teens) classes on child care and development at Maggie’s House.  The furnace and tankless water heater have been installed and the rooms have been refurbished to be more inviting for the new clients.  Residents will need to purchase their own food using their monthly $150 food stamp benefits which is not enough to last through the month.  Opening a pantry to cover some of their needs is a possibility.  Clients attend school and learn other life skills such as budgeting their money.  If they’re interested in attending college the staff helps them file for a Pell Grant.  If clients have children and are attending school or working they are eligible for TANF and can also apply for the WIC program.  Everyone is expected to help out with all the chores needed to maintain the home.  It is difficult if not impossible for clients to purchase needed items such as toiletries, clothing, school supplies, etc and is another way our groups could help.  The children of clients, whether they reside in the home or are enrolled in the out-patient program, have the same basic needs as children in our other programs so Lakota Friends Circle is now sending diapers, wipes, and toiletries to them.  LFC has provided propane on two separate occasions to help them stay warm until warmer weather arrives.   

Wanblee is busy with NAHA deliveries and helping those in need who call for help.  LFC purchased a snowblower for Jerome High Horse so he could keep the parking lot cleared at the Kennedy Center for delivery trucks instead of paying someone $125 to plow it each time it snows.  Jerome and Theresa have several people who volunteer to  pack bags for families and elders in need. 

White Buffalo Calf Women’s Society serves clients in the shelter and residents of the community.  They always need hygiene products (including hotel toiletries) placed in a plastic bag for visibility, clothing and shoes for women, men, teens, children, babies/toddlers and general household necessities such as blankets, bedding, towels, linens, kitchen needs, etc.

LFC partner group, For the Children of Pine Ridge and Rosebud Reservations members have been very busy with several projects.

• Bright Start – Focused on blankets with books, warm sleepers, hats and sleep sacks.
• Veterans Home – Members donated toiletries, snacks and easy to prepare foods for residents.
• Red Shirt – Members donated over $1,000 to Reservation Outreach to purchase air mattresses, warm adult clothing and pantry items.
• Rosebud Elementary – Group is starting on their yearly Christmas project which is providing a blanket for every student.  Donations of office and classroom supplies and healthy snacks were recently sent by members.
• White Buffalo Calf – Group members sent women’s clothing, blankets and children’s activity books.
• Other Donations – Members will be sending gardening tools and supplies to the Boys & Girls Teen Group and also to Bright Start moms.

 LFC Partner group Pine Ridge Elders has been working with several programs.

•  Porcupine School – Every Friday the teachers hold a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) project for students and members have been sending supplies for the project including construction paper, sharpies and card stock.  Members also sent paint and paintbrushes for an art project to the school. Ear phones were sent for the kids in the class to help with reading skills and are currently planning on supporting a writing contest about how they can give back to their community. The kids writing and reading skills are low so hopefully this exercise will give them some skills and confidence. They will get a subway coupon for their efforts.
• Veterans Home –  Donated many DVDs and VHS tapes.  
• Warm Accessories – Group members knit or crochet warm hats, mittens, scarves and afghans all year long so they’re ready to supply areas in need with their warm gifts when winter rolls around again.

March/April Project “Summer Clothing”

Sew for Kids and LFC partner groups will be focusing on summer clothing for each of the programs we serve either sewing or purchasing clothing mainly for children ages 0-12 but adult clothing is needed too.  Garage sales and thrift stores are always great places to shop as are your family’s closets.  Bathing suits are always appreciated as are bath and beach towels, sunscreen and sun hats and don’t forget sandals, athletic shoes and flip flops and sunglasses.   

 Clothing Needs

• Tops – T- Shirts, tank tops, shirts, one piece rompers for babies, dresses with matching shorts
• Bottoms – Shorts, lightweight leggings and pants, capris, skirts/skorts with matching shorts.
• Outerwear – Hoodies and light jackets.
• Pajamas – Lightweight pj’s or sleep pants/shorts with T-shirt 
• Shoes – Flip flops, sandals, athletic shoes and other summer shoes.  All sizes.
• Summer Gear – Sun hats, bucket style for babies and toddlers, baseball caps for older kids, sunglasses, sunscreen at least SPF 30, bathing suits and beach towels.

Addresses for programs are here.  White Buffalo Calf Women’s Society, Wanblee and Maggie’s House can use all sizes 0-adult. Bright Start and RST accept children’s clothing 0-4T only.  Gather Our Children Home accepts all children’s sizes and some smaller adult sizes too. Check with Reservation Outreach for their size needs before sending.  Marty Indian School’s needs are clothing and shoes for kids K-6, some kids do wear adult sizes in clothing and shoes.  After mid-May check with Carol to see if staff is available to receive your shipment to the school.. 

Many thanks to our generous donors for continuing to support the programs we serve on Pine Ridge, Rosebud and Marty Indian Reservations in South Dakota that are so important to children and their families.  You are all shining examples of what it means to be kind!

Sew For Kids  

January/February Baby Layettes

Happy New Year everyone!  Another year begins and so do our monthly projects!

Our focus this month (January) will be making/purchasing items for layettes for new moms served by Bright Start on Pine Ridge Reservation and RST Maternal and Child Health on Rosebud Reservation.  February’s focus will be getting larger sized toddler clothing to Bright Start (up to 4T), RST (up to 3T), the foster home, the daycare center in Wanblee, WBCWS, Maggie’s House, and Reservation Outreach if needed.    

Hospitals give new moms very little – a bag of diapers to use while in the hospital, formula if not breastfeeding, a small tub, and sanitary pads (which will be needed 5-6 weeks after delivery).  Diapers and formula are always an issue on the Rez as they are across the US in low income families. The average yearly income on both reservations is $6000.  Most will qualify for food stamps and WIC but neither of those programs supply diapers or allow diapers to be purchased using their funds so parents must find other sources such as non-profits (LFC is one), food banks, churches, etc.  Using cloth diapers isn’t an option for most as some homes do not have water, a washer/dryer or a car to get to a laundromat and even if transportation could be found there’s no money to buy detergent or pay for the washer.  Lakota Friends Circle has provided washers and dryers for programs serving women and children if they’re not available.

Parents using daycare services must bring their own diapers, if they don’t have them they can’t use their services unless the daycare has their own diaper resource.  Parents need to work and/or attend school so this is a big problem for young families.  Some parents wait longer between diaper changes to conserve supplies so babies are prone to diaper rash and can become very cranky which may contribute to abuse with young,  inexperienced parents.  Diapers are expensive, current prices are 30 cents each, $70-80 per month, $840 per year.  A baby will use 6,000 diapers in their first 2 years of life.  Diaper need  is great on the Rez and among all low income families and the reason why SFK started the Diaper Program at Lakota Friends Circle so we could do our small part to help.  There are fewer diapers per box in the larger sizes (3-6 most requested) so our hope is potty training begins whenever possible.   Most children are potty trained by the age of 3 but not all as many factors affect training.  Most families don’t have a training potty and many use an outhouse which makes training a lot more difficult.     

Formula is always needed as well, the WIC supply doesn’t last through the month and there is a limited amount you can purchase with food stamps.  These resources require registering with the WIC program and processing can take up to a month.  Programs for pregnant women such as Bright Start and RST help their clients apply for WIC which they can use during their pregnancy (nutritious food) and until their child reaches the age of 5.   This is another critical need LFC purchases with funds from the monthly SFK program if requested by the areas we serve.   

Our goal this month is to send 10-15 newborn layettes (size 0-3 months) to each baby program, Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health.  Although most infants wear 0-3 month size they can use NB and preemie sizes too.  Layettes will be assembled by personnel of each area.   

Each layette will have the following:

• Diaper Bag – or suitable substitute – tote bag, backpack, etc.
• Toiletry Bag – to hold small items and toiletries
• Disposable Diapers – 12 for each bag
• Towel and Washcloth – Bath towel or hooded towel is great for infants and a few baby washcloths
• Bibs and Burp Cloths – 2-3 of each
• Blankets – 2, can be crocheted, knitted, sewn baby/toddler size
• Receiving Blankets – 2-3 flannel, single or double sided
• Sheets – crib or pack ‘n play size
• Onesies – 3 long or short sleeve (0-3 M)
• Sleepers – 3 – preferably with feet (0-3M)
• Sleepsacks – 1-2, flannel/fleece for cold months, cotton for summer
• Socks – 3-4 pair
• Pants – 3 pairs, leggings good too.
• Sweater/Hoodie – sweaters are a good project for knitters and crocheters.
• Mitts – 2 pairs to keep babies hands warm and prevent scratching.
• Toiletries – Baby wash/shampoo, lotion, diaper rash cream, baby thermometer, baby nail clipper, toothpaste and brush for toddlers.
• Other – Stuffed animal/doll, books, developmental toys, teething ring/toy.

February we will be stocking programs serving toddlers with needs they request in sizes 0-4T.

Toddler Needs

• Onesies/undershirts – long sl. Winter, short sl. summer
• Sleepers – fleece/flannel winter, cotton knit summer
• Pants/shorts – denim, corduroy, fleece for winter, lightweight summer
• Shoes and socks – toddler sizes up to 10-11, socks to match.
• Sweaters and Hoodies
• Skirts and Dresses – with shorts or leggings to match
• Outerwear – winter coats, jackets, snowsuits, snow pants
• Accessories – hats, mittens, gloves, balaclava
• Toys/activities – Age appropriate, safe toys and books, activity bags

Needs for Moms

• Toiletries and bag – lotion, deodorant, toothpaste/brush, soap, nail care and polish.
• Sanitary supplies – pads, heavy duty and regular
• Hair Care – comb/brush, hair ties/bands, shampoo/conditioner, etc.
• Personal – nursing pads, purse, wallet, pen/paper, adult coloring book, colored pencils, fine tip markers, journal, puzzle,

Please use your sewing, knitting, crocheting and other skills to make some of these items, most of them are great stash busters or great projects for repurposing.  Bibs, blankets, burp pads, sleep sacks, pants, dresses, sweaters, hats, mittens, hooded towels, washcloths, stuffed animals, tote bags, toiletry bags can all be crafted from materials you probably have in your stash or closet.  All the links on our Sew For Kids pattern page have just been updated and are working.  All donations should meet our donation guidelines found here.  Shipping addresses are here.

If you would like to purchase toiletries and other needs that can’t be crafted you can order from the RST wish list or Bright Start wish list or make a one time or monthly donation to our baby program here.   You may find these items at a cheaper rate at another store. You can also add items to your other donations but keep in mind liquids may freeze in winter.  Please let us know if you purchase any of these items as LFC will buy items thru our monthly baby program fund to make sure they get so many items each month.

Thank you so much for helping babies have a happy, healthy start in life!

Update On SFK Programs and Other Lakota Friends Circle Partner Organizations

Another cold winter is arriving, with temperatures already below freezing on the Rez. Lakota Friends Circle needs to refill its coffers for 2024 to continue to support the programs where we feel that our help has made a difference. Our focus still remains on helping programs with basic needs but which also provide an educational component to those they serve so that it is not just “a hand out but a hand up”. Providing people with skills encourages self sufficiency. LFC and its partner groups are only able to accomplish this with our donors’ support both material and monetary. Without you, we could not do what we do.

Gather Our Children Home, (WGO) an emergency placement home for abused and neglected children, and supported by SFK implemented many new policies over the past months that were required by the state for licensing purposes and by Child Protective Services. They have new staff with needed skills. Those changes have brought positive changes to the home to ensure that kids 0-12 years, many of whom have been sexually abused and arrive malnourished or unkempt, or who are born to drug addicted moms are now in a safe environment. Kids are fed, clothed, kept clean, updated on their health issues and provided with toys, books and love. Many kids have trauma from their experiences and require help from experts in the area. Many kids act out initially as they build trust in their providers. The kids’ environment is kept as normal as possible – attending school, keeping to a daily schedule so they know how their day will progress. In the meantime, Child Protective Services works on finding a good foster home with relatives if possible. If no one is found, the child stays in the home in foster care until such a placement becomes available or a parent has proven that they can provide a safe living environment, basic needs and has a job or is going to school to better themselves. Many families are very poor and live with others in a crowded home environment that is not conducive to keeping kids safe. LFC and SFK volunteers have provided food, seasonal clothes, toys, toiletries, blankets, funding for consultant skills and paying for the phone/ internet for the time being and occasionally filling the propane tank to keep kids warm or cool. LFC has also purchased appliances in the past.

Marty Indian School – Sew For Kids Volunteers work with LFC on making sure kids have learning tools from day one and proper clothing to attend school. Kids at the beginning of this school year were given 2 new seasonal outfits, a pair of prized Pjs, and school supplies. Some of our volunteers, once again, became room parents from afar to provide teachers with items for special science/school projects, crafts, holiday celebrations, classroom learning tools, and special books. Others filled the Buffalo Shoppe ( formerly the Feather store), a store that SFKV has filled with basic needs for kids – clothes, toiletries, toys, books, linens and blankets. Kids are dressed warmly so they can go outside at recess or go on trips such as the recent visit to the pumpkin patch dressed for the weather. Kids earn buffalo bucks for following Dakota values each week to spend in the shop . Some use the money to buy something fun, others use it for a family need. The shoppe also provides a learning experience for grades 3-5 on how to run a business. LFC has a snack fund that provides daily healthy snacks for kids before they head home to ensure they have something in their bellies for the evening. Breakfast and lunch are provided at school. The snack funding comes entirely from monthly or one time donations. Supporters also purchase items made for dolls by crafty donors who make them for gifting a doll to a child at Christmas or other times and the profits are donated to the fund . The library we set up in past years is not being used as intended due to lack of staff. The books will be distributed by the reading specialist at the school, to the various classes so that they have more variety in their small class libraries. Kids are encouraged to choose a book to read. Reading scores and math scores have improved since we started helping, thanks to the efforts of teachers and the reading specialists to work on those two areas , as well as in other subjects like science, social studies etc. One of our donors gave a donation to Marty Indian school and the school bought a 3D machine . Kids are learning about design and what needs to be considered when designing such an item. Games and some outside equipment were purchased with another donation so that kids could play inside on days when the weather was not cooperative.

Rosebud Elementary School – Our partner group For the Children of Pine Ridge Reservation and Rosebud sends warm items to the 300+ children at the school at the beginning of the school year, for Christmas, and for special holidays. Kids come from very poor homes so having basic needs to attend school and learning tools and some fun items , makes their lives more tolerable and happier.

The 2 baby programs Bright Start on PRR and RST Maternal and Child Health on Rosebud reservation ,that are overseen by visiting nurses , provide basic needs like diapers, baby toiletries, blankets, clothing , learning tools and books for mom and baby. The nurses visit every 2 weeks in the Bright Start program on Pine Ridge Rez and monthly in RST Maternal and Child. They provide education to the moms on child rearing and catch issues early in the mom and child that need addressed. Moms are encouraged to continue their education. Funding for the basic needs like diapers ,sanitary items, and toiletries are provided through a one time donation to LFC or from a monthly donation, specific to our baby programs . While the baby program monthly donation was initially set up to provide only for these 2 programs, it has expanded to the foster home, to babies in our community programs, and to the shelter for those experiencing domestic violence. Both SFK and For the Children of PRR and Rosebud support the baby programs.

The White Buffalo Calf Woman’s Society situated on Rosebud Rez in SD – the only shelter available to women and men on the reservations in SD, also draws clients from ND, and Nebraska. This shelter is sorely needed. Missing and murdered women are not an uncommon occurrence on Indian reservations. The WBCWS provides education to clients in the shelter but also to those in the community, many who have been clients at one time. It also provides material needs. Our donors send material items like clothes, gifts, blankets etc to the home. LFC donations provide the diapers, toiletries, sanitary items for the shelter. Both SFK and For the Children of PRR and Rosebud support the shelter.

The scholarship program we feel has been a success, Thanks to our benevolent donors, LFC is deeply committed to education, we were able to set up a scholarship initiative for college or trade school-bound students, aiding in their purchase of essential books or tools. Originating with a single scholarship recipient, we now support five students, each pursuing varied but vital careers including law, academia, civil engineering, and carpentry. Our goal is to persist and expand our $1,000 per semester scholarships to these aspiring individuals, contingent upon their successful completion of the preceding semester. We definitely need your support for this program to continue.

LFC helps other areas as well with the help of our partner groups.

Wanblee Child Youth and Elder program LFC provides funds to keep the Kennedy Hall open for community events but also to receive donations from the biweekly NAHA trucks. We buy the bags that they need to package items for individual families. LFC pays the monthly electric bill. Our SFK donors send basic items to the area that includes not only Wanblee but the smaller and poorer surrounding communities off the beaten track. We are gearing up for the Christmas holidays, sending gifts for the kids and elders, and most likely some food for the party if asked. We do send them some diapers and toiletries for elders and babies throughout the year or for a request that comes in for a special need. Soon the Woodchucks who cut wood for the people of communities around and in Wanblee who have wood stoves will be out cutting wood to deliver to the leaky reservation homes. and may need some warm clothing.

The Veterans Home on PRR receives basic needs from our partner For the Children of Pine Ridge Reservation to the 15 people living there.

The White Clay Nursing Home also receives items from For the Children of PRR and Rosebud , like shawls and blankets for the clients and has been providing funds to LFC to buy food for the weekly talking/social circle. With the loss of our dear friend Ruby who was instrumental in setting this program up, because few residents have visitors, we hope it will continue. And until recently, this group has also provided needed items like clothes, food, toiletries to the homeless which the group hopes they can continue doing with a new head .

Pine Ridge Elders is another partner group of LFC that sends warm winter hats, mittens, blankets, shawls to our various areas as well as helps a teacher at Porcupine school with needs for the kids in her classroom.

Finally, all our partner groups have been assisting Reservation Outreach with some of their needs for their population in Red Shirt and Oglala. While our present project is providing gifts for the Christmas season, throughout the year, we have sent school supplies, mattresses, clothing, blankets, toiletries, smoke detectors, fire extinguisher, coffee maker, pantry shelves, and funds for filling their pantry.

We thank you for your past support and hope to count on your future support. Thanks to you, babies have diapers, people are fed and kept warm and clean. Thanks to you, scholarships to empower the youth of Pine Ridge were possible. Your tax deductible donations make a difference! Giving Tuesday and SD Gives Day are on November 28, 2023. Please consider making a monthly or one-time donation to Lakota Friends Circle. Donations can be made here https://www.lakotafriendscircle.org/donate/ on or before that day or at any time.. Check out our website or our facebook page . Material donations to the various organizations we help can be made by following the links on the Ravelry group  For the Children of Pine RidgeReservation and Rosebud and Sew for Kids .

Thinking About Christmas

Although it seems early to be thinking about Christmas, it’s never too early to begin working on those gifts that are labor intensive such as afghans, hats, mittens, quilts, shawls, and other hand crafted items.  It’s still too early to know how many gifts will be needed for the areas we serve so we will rely on numbers from the past few years.  We also help stock the Buffalo Shop at Marty School with gift items so students can shop for gifts for their family members using “Buffalo Bucks” they’ve earned for good behavior.  

Sewing tote bags and toiletry/cosmetic bags now saves time later when it comes time to fill them with gifts for Christmas or we get requests from an area needing toiletry bags or activity bags.  Pillow cases are another sewing project to work on, pillows with a nice pillowcase continue to be one of the most popular (and requested) gift items.  Practical gifts such as hats, mittens and blankets are always needed and those made with bright colored yarn or fabric are always popular with children. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Sewing/Crafting Projects

• Hats, mittens, cowls, gaiters that are knit, crocheted or sewn from fleece.  Scarves are welcome for teens only, they pose a choking risk for younger kids.
• Blankets, quilts and afghans are great Christmas gifts and are needed all winter.
• Pillowcases with a new pillow are favorite gifts for all ages.  Flannel sheets, new or gently, used would be a great addition to your gift.
• Socks and slippers that are hand crafted or purchased, all sizes needed.
• Pajamas sewn or purchased in flannel or fleece. 
• Sleep Sacks and sleepers for babies, sewn or purchased.
• Sweaters, fleece tops and hoodies.  Many teens like to layer their clothing instead of wearing a coat.
• Toiletry bags – with a new washcloth and/or towel make great gifts.  Great way to use up scraps in your stash.
• Cosmetic bags – for teens and moms, add lipgloss/lipstick, nail polish, perfume or small lotion.
• Jewelry Bag – fill it with bling, make your own or purchase.
• Diaper Bags – add some diapers, wipes and diaper cream.
• Shopping Bags – fill with a few food items such as tea bags, artificial sweetener, and a sugar free snack for elders or granola bars, cereal, dried fruit/nuts for children to get them through winter break.
• Activity Bags – make themed bags such as art, sewing, knitting, puzzles, games, beading, etc.
• Book Bags/Backpacks – Make or purchase and add a few books, pencil, paper, crayons/colored pencils, and pencil case.
• Purses and Wallets – great gifts for teens, gently used purses are welcomed.  Fill purses with small items such as nail clipper, comb, brush, chapstick, notepad and pen, etc.
• Dolls and Stuffed Animals – New or gently used with clothing and a carrier.  SFK Doll Program info here. 

These are just a few ideas to get you started thinking about Christmas on the Rez and if you start your crafting now you’ll be so happy you did come November!  There are plenty of free patterns and ideas on Pinterest, YouTube and many craft blogs.  Please share your ideas and pics of your projects with others in the group.  When we all work together the cost and work load is much lighter and more fun too.

Please add a note to your gifts with the age/size and gender of the recipient it was intended for if needed.  Some areas we donate to throughout the year will keep some items as a reserve in case they don’t get enough donations at the holidays to give everyone a gift.  Let the crafting and sewing begin!!  

Thanks as always from Sew For Kids.

School’s Out Summer Begins

For the past two months SFK members have been sewing and purchasing summer clothing for the areas we serve although we haven’t received a lot of requests yet due to the snow and cold still lingering on the Rez.  When summer does arrive it’s usually hot and dry so being properly dressed makes the heat much more tolerable.  Many homes on the Rez do not have fans and even fewer have air conditioning.  Those most affected by extreme weather are elders, babies and toddlers and those with health problems.  Some of the homes do not have running water so they must travel to a water source to fill up jugs for drinking water.  Refillable water bottles would be a good thing to add to any boxes you’re sending.    

We have some ideas listed below of things you can send for the kids to enjoy their summer.  School will soon be out, so kids will be attending summer school and/or summer programs around the Rez such as horse or dog camps and community day activities where they will most likely receive breakfast and lunch.  Parents struggle to stretch their food stamps enough to keep food on the table during the summer when children are home and eating more due to all their extra activity.  Parents love these programs that keep their children occupied in constructive activities and provide nutritious food for them.    

Here are some ideas for the May project

• Toiletries – Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, bar soap, body wash, sanitary supplies for girls, hand sanitizer, baby wash and lotion, sunscreen.
• Towels/washcloths –  Bath size, new or gently used are welcome. 
• Tote Bags – Hand sewn or purchased are needed for Bright Start, RST Maternal and Child Health, and Gather Our Children Home.  They are used   as activity bags for kids, care bags for those in crisis, and diaper bags. People receiving donations in a nice, cloth bag instead of a plastic grocery bag are bound to feel a little better about themselves.
• Summer Toys – Balls, jump ropes, sand box toys, sidewalk chalk, art supplies, coloring books, DVD’s, books, journals, swimsuits and goggles.
• Teen Gifts –  Teens are often overlooked (especially boys) until Christmas rolls around. Let’s make them feel special by sending small gifts to our programs serving teens and young adults. Small “fidget” games, sports balls, frisbees, magazines, books, baseball caps, flip flops, wallet, after shave, card games, art supplies, etc. for boys. Hair ties, nail polish, makeup, perfume, comb/brush, jewelry, art and craft supplies for girls.  
• Linens – Sheets, pillows and pillowcases, light blankets or quilts. Up to queen size.
• First Aid – Anti-itch lotion such as calamine, benadryl or generic, bandages, topical antibiotics.  If covid resurfaces in large numbers, masks and hand sanitizer wipes would be welcome.   

Some of the programs are not currently operating so we will concentrate on areas that can use these items which are RST Maternal and Child Health and Bright Start baby programs, Red Shirt community (through Reservation Outreach),  Gather Our Children Home (foster home), and Marty Indian School (through June).  White Buffalo Calf on Rosebud and Wanblee Kids, Youth and Elders can use items as well.  Maggie’s House and Wild Horse Butte CDC are on hold until they are open for business.  These two areas mainly have the teen population so teen items are not needed now but will be for Christmas gifts so save the list and maybe do some of your shopping this summer.  The Youth Center in Martin might reopen this summer so we’ll let you know if that happens.  Look here for information about programs we help https://sewforkids.wordpress.com/make-a-difference/organizations-we-help/

Towels and washcloths are always a need as are toiletries, sanitary items, toothpaste and toothbrushes.  Towels can also  be used at the swimming pool or the beach.  We will make sure kids at the school, through our room parent program, receive a towel and some toiletries before they leave for the summer.  We do provide monthly shipments of toiletries, formula, diapers and wipes for the baby programs and for the foster home.  If you would like to support this program and save the cost and trouble of sending your own, you can make a monthly or one time donation to Lakota Friends Circle here.   

Tote bags are always needed as they can be used for shopping, a picnic lunch, for kids leaving the foster home, book bags, for nurses to fill with your donations when visiting their clients, etc.  We want to encourage people to use reusable bags instead of one-use plastic bags which end up in the landfill or wrapped around trees or littering the roadside.  We usually ask for warm blankets but during summer months lightweight blankets and sheets are needed.  Babies use light receiving blankets or a lightweight sleep sack.  A new pillow with a pretty pillowcase would be a delight for children and adults and continues to be one of the most popular gifts.   

The visiting nurses from Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health are requesting sun hats and sunscreen (zinc or titanium oxide for babies and young children) and adults.  Sun hats are quick to make (free patterns on Pinterest) and a good way to use up larger scraps in your stash or you can purchase them.  A few of the mothers in the Bright Start program want to try their hand at gardening this summer.  We’re always enthused about anyone wanting to grow their own food so Lakota Friends Circle will purchase a tomato and maybe a pepper plant in a container for them.  They need donations of small hand tools, gloves and seeds of bush beans, zucchini, cucumbers and chard.  They will also need a sun hat and sunscreen as well.

Children of all ages love balls – soccer balls, basketballs, footballs, Nerf type balls, bouncy balls, etc.  Sand toys for the baby programs are a good choice but older toddlers and young children love them too – trucks, pails and shovels, etc.  More good choices are play dishes, jump ropes, frisbees, horseshoes, bean bag toss, sidewalk chalk, etc.  Books for all ages, coloring books, crayons/colored pencils, puzzles, puzzle books, card games, board games, journals and art supplies are all good for those quiet times in the afternoon when it’s too hot to do anything outside or you just need to take a break.Making a craft bag to keep items together is a good idea as well. They can be handed out to moms or kids. Adding a few books is always a good idea to encourage reading. Many homes have DVD players as TV reception is lousy on the Rez so movies are fun too. Kids do need athletic type shoes, flip flops and sports sandals in sizes to fit toddler through adult. Some areas have swimming pools so swimsuits and  goggles are welcome.  Wanblee has a pool at the school as does Pine Ridge, but we’re not sure if they’re open during the summer, the public pool in Martin should be open.  Gently used swimsuits can be found at thrift stores and garage sales.  Toddlers using a kiddie pool can wear shorts and long sleeve T-shirts to protect from sunburn along with their hat.  Sunglasses would be good for everyone from toddlers to adults to protect young eyes from developing future cataracts. 

Thanks to everyone for making donations to the programs we support or monetary gifts to LFC to purchase baby needs and toiletries.  Every item you send or dollar you contribute will help children and their families to have a safe, enjoyable summer vacation!  Mailing addresses can be found here.  

Sew For Kids Latest Area to Help

Reservation Outreach

Is a non-profit that has been collecting and distributing donations to Red Shirt and other area communities since 2012.  Their mission statement:  “Reservation Outreach is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization that is focused on eliminating hunger and providing support to the families of Pine Ridge Reservation through outreach projects with respect and admiration of the culture”.  Director Gloria Klomsten and her husband make several trips to the area each year with a group of volunteers to distribute food and clothing and work on home repairs and other community projects. Gloria works with the Directors of all 10 Elder Meal sites on Pine Ridge and they inform her of any needs the elders have which they try to locate and  bring on rental trucks during their summer work trips.   

Lakota Friends Circle provided funds for shelving at the new food bank Gloria recently started in the community.  She receives a $300 monthly allowance to purchase food which doesn’t go very far since she only wants to stock healthy food.  LFC may also provide scholarships for students to attend Red Cloud School (if they are accepted) in Pine Ridge as Red Shirt School only serves students through grade 8.  We recently provided funds for the purchase of inflatable mattresses as many family members were sleeping on the floor. 

The community of Red Shirt is located at the northwestern corner of Pine Ridge Reservation just outside Badlands National Park in South Dakota.  Rapid City is about 40 miles north.  The community does not have a grocery store, gas station or convenience store and qualifies as a “food desert”,  The FDA criteria for this distinction is 1/3 of the population lives more than 10 miles from a grocery store and has a poverty rate greater than or equal to 80% of statewide median family income.

As with most areas of the Rez they need everything.  Remote areas such as Red Shirt and the other small communities Reservation Outreach serves, are 50 to 60 miles from the town of Pine Ridge where donations from organizations are usually taken to.  Little if anything makes its way to these communities which is another reason they need our help.  Their needs are:

• Household Items – Pots and pans, bakeware, cooking utensils, silverware and cleaning supplies. 
• Linens – Sheets, blankets, afghans, bath towels, washcloths, kitchen towels, pillows (new only) and pillowcases.  Most beds are twin to queen.
• Baby Needs – Diapers (larger sizes most needed), formula, clothing, diaper cream, baby wash, etc.
• Toiletries – Soap, body wash, shampoo/conditioner, comb/brush, toothpaste and toothbrush, deodorant, feminine hygiene products.
• Craft Supplies – Sewers need fabric for quilts and ribbon skirts, ribbons, thread and other notions.  Beading supplies are also appreciated.
• Clothing –  Underwear and socks for all ages, clothing for infants (3 months) through adults 2X, seasonally appropriate.  
• Christmas gifts will be needed for some of the population – to be determined who and when 

There are about 25 elders in the community, 15 female and 10 male.  Children ages as of December 2022:  Infants (6), 4 girls, 2 boys.  Age 2-4 (9), 2 girls, 7 boys.  Age 5-7 (7), 4 girls, 3 boys.  Age 8-10 (4), 3 girls, 1 boy.  Age 11-14 (21), 11 girls, 10 boys. 

There is a Give Back Box address already in place for shipment directly to Red Shirt, however Caroline the person on the other end has a husband on dialysis and a disabled son so is not always available to check on boxes at the community center. The label to ship with GBB is here.  To mail directly to Red Shirt without GBB:  Elder Meal Site, Tatanka Numpa Road, Hermosa, SD 57744.

Gloria travels to Red Shirt several times a year in a rental truck to take donations that are either donated in her area or are mailed to her home. You can still ship to her and still use the GBB program by purchasing a generic label here, and email Monika at info@givebackbox.com and ask for a label with this information:  Reservation Outreach 4409 Hwy 7, Suite 1 Hot Springs, AR 71909.  To send to Gloria without using GBB use this address:  Gloria Klomsten, 2 Reclamo Place, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909.

Thank you for helping Reservation Outreach help the underserved populations of Red Shirt and other remote areas of Pine Ridge Reservation.

Join our SFK Facebook here . We are a working group and would love to have you be part of helping the kids and their families on the 3 Indian Reservations we help in SD.

Project List 2023

January/February – “Babies”

• Baby Blankets – Warm blankets, quilts, afghans, and receiving blankets. Crib to youth size
• Towels – Hooded and regular bath towels, washcloths.
• Clothing – Sleepers, sleep sacks, onesies, tops, pants, sweaters and hats, socks and soft shoes. RST serves babies/toddlers up to age 2 while Bright Start serves babies/toddlers to age 3. Clothing 3 months to 2T – 4T. The majority of newborns wear 3 months, although NB size is welcome for smaller babies. 
• Books and Toys – Baby books and safe toys such as board books, stuffed animals, etc.   
• Toiletries – Baby wash, baby lotion, diaper cream, manicure set, comb/brush set. Also need toiletries for women and sanitary needs.

Please send your donations to Bright Start, RST Maternal and Child Health (clothing 3 months to 24 or 2T only) or Children in Need of Care, addresses are here.

March/ April – “Summer Clothing”

• Summer Clothing – Make or purchase summer clothing for toddlers through young adults. Shorts, capris, dresses, skirts, lightweight pants, leggings, T-shirts, light jackets and summer weight pajamas or sleep pants in sizes 3 months to adult 1-2X. Sizes 3 months to 3/4T only for Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health programs.
• Shoes – Sandals, flip flops and other summer shoes, all sizes.
• Sunscreen and Sun hats – Bucket type for babies and young children, baseball caps for teens. Sunscreen at least SPF 30.

Please ship your donations to Marty Indian School, 

May – “School’s Out” 

• Toiletries – Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, bar soap, body wash, sanitary supplies, hand sanitizer, baby wash and lotion.
• Towels/washcloths –  for kids during the summer 
• Tote Bags – Hand sewn or purchased are needed for Bright Start, RST Maternal and Child Health, Gather Our Children Home, Maggie’s House, and White Buffalo Calf Women’s Society on Rosebud. They are used for clients leaving the shelter, activity bags for kids, care bags for those in crisis, and diaper bags. People receiving donations in a nice, cloth bag instead of a plastic grocery bag are bound to feel a little better about themselves.
• Summer Toys – Balls, jump ropes, sand box toys, sidewalk chalk, art supplies, coloring books, DVD’s, books, journals, swimsuits and goggles.
• Teen Gifts –  Teens are often overlooked (especially boys) until Christmas rolls around. Let’s make them feel special by sending small gifts to our programs serving teens and young adults. Small “fidget” games, sports balls, frisbees, magazines, books, baseball caps, flip flops, wallet, after shave, card games, art supplies, etc. for boys. Hair ties, nail polish, makeup, perfume, comb/brush, jewelry, art and craft supplies for girls.  
• Linens – Sheets, pillows and pillowcases, light blankets or quilts. Up to queen size.

June – “Christmas Begins”

Now is the time to begin working on those Christmas gifts that are labor intensive such as afghans, hats, mittens, quilts, shawls, etc.

July/August “Back To School”

• School Clothes – Pants, shirts, T-shirts, hoodies, light jackets, skirts and leggings. Skirts are a good project for those who sew.
• School Supplies – Pens, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, glue sticks, notebooks, composition books, crayons, markers, plastic folders, pencil cases and backpacks. Pencil cases and backpacks can be sewn or purchased.
• Socks and Underwear – New only.  Socks to fit students K-5, size chart here. Adult sizes for students in grades 4 and 5. Underwear in sizes 5/6 to 16/18 or adult S-XL for both genders. Sports bras for girls (can be gently used) sizes 16/18 to adult S-XL.
• Shoes – Sturdier shoes, no sandals or flip flops in sizes 12Y to adult 11, shoe chart here. Gently used shoes are acceptable if they are clean with no wear on soles.
• Toiletries – Shampoo/conditioner, soap, body wash, deodorant, sanitary items for girls.

September/October “Winter/ Christmas Begins”

• Clothing – Sew or purchase winter clothing, pants, sweatshirts, PJ’s, long underwear, heavy socks in sizes 3 months through adult 2X.
• Outerwear – Winter coats, hoodies, snow pants, snowsuits, mittens/gloves, hats, cowls, infant through adult 2X
• Boots – Snow or hiking type in sizes toddler through adult 12.
• Blankets – Including quilts, fleece blankets, afghans, and receiving blankets for babies.  All sizes needed up to queen.
• Christmas Gifts – Start working on or finishing up gifts if you started early.

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November/December “Christmas”

• Infant/toddler – Age appropriate toys such as stuffed animals or soft dolls, puzzles, coloring books and crayons, blocks, soft books, etc.
• Kids 3-7 – Dolls, trucks, stuffed animals, balls, Legos, crafts, games, stickers, coloring books and crayons/markers, art supplies, play-doh, pillow with case.  
• Kids 8-12 – Sports items, craft bags, art supplies, adult coloring books, hair accessories, pillow with case, board games, diary or journal,
• Teens – Girls love purses, make-up bags and make-up, nail polish, manicure items, cologne, jewelry, etc. Boys like sports equipment, wallets, baseball caps, flashlights, card games, “Fidget” toys, etc. Good gifts for both are filled toiletry bags, duffel bags, books, magazines, new pillow with case, PJ’s or sleep pants, warm hats, cowls and gloves.,
• Donate Funds – For propane, food and other emergency needs to Lakota Friends Circle.

There is always a shortage of gifts for boys across all age groups so please don’t forget them when purchasing gifts.  Thanks!!  

The main project list won’t change but there may be additions as we learn of special needs from the areas we serve.  Work on your favorite project or try something new, we don’t expect members to donate every month, just help when you can.  Projects are matched to the season as well as events such as back to school or Christmas parties but as long time members know, it’s perfectly acceptable to be knitting mittens in May or sewing shorts in January.  

Please review the donation guidelines here and read the blogs for more information about monthly projects and current needs. We work along with other groups and in order to coordinate shipments we will post any special instructions in our blogs. Shipping addresses are here. If you use  Give Back Box  please follow the shipping directions on the site. Until further notice do not use the shipping labels given after payment.  Email Monika at info@givebackbox.com and ask for a UPS quantum label for each of your boxes. The labels from the site are all printed with the same number so your package can’t be tracked, a glitch we hope will soon be corrected.

January 2023 News and a New Project

2023 has arrived and we would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!  It’s been a cold winter so far for the Rez and they’ve had so much snow that the National Guard was deployed to clear the large drifts from roads.  Christmas was delayed in many households, traveling anywhere was out of the question so families main concerns were staying warm, having enough to eat and finding a way to get to dialysis appointments for diabetics. 

Things are slowly returning to normal for most areas and temperatures are now in the 40’s. Let’s hope the mild weather sticks around for a while.   

Marty Indian School 

Students returned to school on the 9th, opening was delayed due to the pipes freezing and busting during the winter storm.  The principal’s office and two classrooms were flooded so the mess had to be cleaned up and repairs made before they could open.Thankfully the flood spared the Buffalo Shop and most of the school.  Students left in December before they could have their Christmas party so they celebrated Monday when they returned to school.  A submarine lunch was provided by one of our SFK room parents and her two colleagues from Chicago.  We had another SFK room parent provide pizza for the school’s Halloween party in October.  Thank You ladies for your generosity!!   Room parents sent gifts for their classes and kids opened their gifts at the party.    

Students ended the year with a week of testing with some doing very well and others still needing to catch up, something we’re seeing across the nation. LFC had considering providing a book grant to the school so the reading specialist could purchase grade level books so she can work with those students still needing help. Unfortunately what, a few years ago was $1500  is now $4500. She said she felt it was too much for our group who already did a lot and will first try to get the resource through the school. I asked her to let us know whether she has any luck receiving a grant. She wants the best for the kids. She is still putting together bags with books for students to read and some questions to answer about the book. Students really like the program and have been promised a pizza party at the end of the year. Books are always welcome. LFC will continue to support the snack program at Marty thanks to generous donations from groups like Sew For Kids. Valentine’s Day is the next holiday to be celebrated so room parents and SFK members will be busy sending valentines to their classes or the Buffalo Shop.   

Wild Horse Butte/Sacred Shawl

Gifts were sent for the community Christmas party by SFK, For The Children of Pine Ridge and Rosebud and Pine Ridge Elders groups but the party had to be canceled due to the storm that paralyzed the entire Reservation. They did, however, distribute the gifts to every child in the area. 

Lakota Friends Circle has decided to put this area on hold for now until they can establish a working relationship with whomever is in charge of the area, which they have been unable to do so far. Sew For Kids is a program operating under LFC and we have decided to follow their lead and suspend shipments to the area until we can be assured your donations are going to the intended recipients. 

We will resume assistance to the area if and when there is a competent person in charge.  We are working on a way to help children in Head Start and moms with diapers, formula and other needs and will post an update when we have a workable plan. We have to find a commercial address to ship items, if we use the Give Back Box program.   

Sacred Shawl’s domestic abuse shelter and the old My Space Youth Center are both being used to shelter the area’s homeless. The tribe evicted many people from their tribally owned homes in the projects if they were found to be using drugs which left many without a roof over their heads. Pastor Dan has been trying to help many through his CARES grant.  Ruby S from Pine Ridge receives items from one of our LFC partner groups, For the Children of PRR and Rosebud to feed the homeless and provide warm items and toiletries so they can shower. They are feeding them at one of the churches. The youth center has been closed for some time and abused women have been  going to WBCWS so both places mentioned were available and homeless people needed to go somewhere. 

Maggie’s House 

The new lights have been installed but the insurance company and LaCreek, the utility company that serves the Rez,  are both requiring a certified electrician to approve the work that was done ,before they can open. They have lots of people on the Rez who can do the electrical work but so few are certified. They need to pay a travel expense for the electrician to come from off the Rez , assuming they want to do the work. LaCreek utility personnel  are busy repairing downed lines from the storm so no one is available to do the work. There are some tech programs at OLC college but many students drop out because they are have trouble getting to classes, keeping up with the work, and also because they may need to pay a debt to the college or lack the funding to buy the books, gas etc. LFC did provide Maggie’s house with a new security system that was recently destroyed when someone broke into the house to steal gas coupons, nothing else was taken.  LFC filled their propane tank before Christmas as they still have employees working to help the homeless women and children living in army tents outside the building.  They help them apply for food assistance and TANF, which they’re now eligible for as they have an address to use, and also school and jobs.There are 6 rooms in Maggie’s House that  will house 2 male high school students, 2 families with children , a single woman, and a room for an  employee who will be present on the grounds at all times . The ambulance center outside the building has showers and toilets for the women to use because they still have some money from the CARES covid grant to help the homeless. Yesterday they again needed propane. We only partially filled the tank in December as it is a 1000 gallon tank. The pipes froze during the storm and some needed to be repaired and since there was only 3% propane left in the tank, propane was needed to keep the heat on so that the pipes were in good shape so that the homeless could still use the toilets and the showers. We have to find a new commercial address for them if we want to use the Give Back Box program as UPS is saying the house is considered residential even though it is a non-profit business. Hopefully in the near future we will hear about a plan to open. 

White Buffalo Calf Woman’s Society 

Is a domestic abuse center on Rosebud Reservation that serves women and men from Rosebud, Pine Ridge, Nebraska and North Dakota reservations. This is the only shelter that is currently active on these reservations and is why we want to support it. There is a new director and supervisor in charge so we are working with them to determine their current needs. They also do a lot of community outreach and help families in the area. They have 40 beds at the shelter, a few trailers for large families and have hotel rooms for abused men or women with male children over the age of 16.  We will post their needs when available . 

Wanblee Children, Youth and Elders Program 

We work with Jerome and Theresa High Horse to distribute our donations to families in need in Wanblee and the surrounding areas.  Our focus is currently on the outlying areas as there are other groups helping families in Wanblee now. SFK also helps the Woodchucks with warm items who are men and women from the area that volunteer their time to cut and deliver wood to families that have a wood stove.  Apparently heating assistance through LIHEAP, a  low income housing energy program, has been depleted for this year so people are in need of warm clothing, accessories and blankets.  Households have to apply for the funds, are helped once per season and are helped on a first come first serve basis. The cost of energy this year and the overwhelming numbers in need has shortened the time when they can get help. Energy companies cannot shut off utilities from the end of October through the beginning of April.   Currently Jerome and Theresa are dealing with a lot of family health issues so we will hold off shipping anything until they’re ready.  

Gather Our Children Home 

A safe home for abused and neglected children has been very busy over the holidays.They had 14 children for a few days as there was nowhere for them to go and the storm limited movement around the Rez. Some children were placed in homes but they came back as the placements didn’t work out. The foster home has been working with state officials to meet all their guidelines and they are now a state licensed facility. LFC contracted with an experienced consultant to help the home to write policies they needed and to negotiate with Child Protective Services for a higher daily rate for emergency admissions and another rate for those children staying over 60 days who are essentially considered foster children.   

Parents cannot regain custody of their children until they can provide a safe living environment, have a job or be attending school and receiving TANF and can provide basic needs such as food and clothing. They must also attend parenting classes. LFC has received about $15,000 from their fundraiser held in November from some very generous donors to purchase a van for the foster home. Although the van will be preowned they will make sure it is certified by a licensed mechanic and consult Consumer Reports for dependable models. Thank you to all who donated that day and at other times.  LFC continues to support some of home’s day to day needs . Your SFK donations are very welcomed by the home and they asked me to thank you all.

Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health

Bright Start is a program helping women in their last trimester of pregnancy through their child’s second birthday.  Rosebud Sioux Tribe Maternal and Child Health program helps high risk women through their child’s second birthday.  Both programs not only provide basic needs but also education for women regarding parenting, health, safety, etc.   

Scholarship Program

Although the scholarship program is a project of Lakota Friends Circle, we include it here as those who read this blog are responsible for the success of the program through your continued, generous support.  Both of our Scholarship recipients, Lucinda M, who is in her first year studying building construction and Jarron BH, who is in his second year studying civil engineering,  successfully completed their first semester this year and LFC is awarding them both a $1000 scholarship this semester as they continue their studies. We wish them both a successful spring semester. 

 January/February Projects

We will focus the first two months of this year on getting basic needs for moms.  Listed below are items they can use.  We also have a monthly donation baby program through LFC that allows us to purchase diapers, formula and toiletry needs for moms and babies.  You can make a monthly or one time donation to the program here.  

SFK would like to start a pilot program with Bright Start clients that provides learning aids and books to parents so they have the tools to further their child’s development. Many children on the Rez don’t have books and this is one of the reasons they fall behind. Mary Mousseau is very supportive of early learning and encourages her clients to read to their babies as soon as possible.  Reading is a time when mom and baby are together which helps the bonding process and babies associate that with love.  

We would like to provide a learning bag with an age appropriate book, stuffed animal, puzzles, blocks with letters and numbers, memory games, etc.  Any age appropriate and baby safe learning tool is welcome, new or used.  Please wash all used toys.  Most of the young moms are either attending school or in some kind of educational program so they are always in need of school supplies.  Sewers can have fun with their brightly colored fabrics and make stuffed animals, balls, and memory games.  Please send your books and learning bags to Mary Mousseau here.      

Mary Mousseau said the following about the project “ I think books are great for the unborn, too. Moms read to them and play music for them. They put headphones on their devices and play pow wow music and also Tchaikovsky? The babies relax and fall asleep believing the drums are mommies’ heart beats (I think). So used headphones are valuable, too. Play doh and larger crayons work well. I see they break the smaller crayons. They love washable markers, too. The toddlers like balls, rubber trucks, the girls like dolls with clothes. Make believe food and makeup. Thanks, Mary “

Baby Needs

• Clothing – onesies (long sleeved), warm sleepers, sleep sacks, sweaters, shirts and pants, coats and snow suits.  Most newborns wear 0/3 months but Rosebud’s program also needs NB and preemie since they serve high risk clients.  Sizes for both areas up to 3T.
• Socks/Booties and Hats – All good projects for knitters, crocheters and sewers.
• Blankets – warm blankets, afghans, quilts and receiving blankets
• Towels – Bath towels, hooded towels, baby washcloths (smaller and softer).
• Burp Cloths/Bibs – Both home sewn and purchased.  Good projects to whittle down your stash.
• Toys – Small stuffed animals, teethers, baby books, etc. all age appropriate NB to 2.  All items without loose strings/ties, buttons, or anything that can be ingested.
• Diaper Bags – Traditional style, tote bags and backpacks for younger mothers.
• Sheets – To fit Pac n Play, they only receive one sheet with the unit.
• Toiletries – Baby wash/shampoo, cotton swabs, diaper cream, thermometers, baby nail clippers, pacifiers.
• Diapers and Wipes – Diapers size 3-4 most requested.
• Women’s Toiletries – Shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, body wash, soap, sanitary pads/tampons, toothbrush and toothpaste.  Small items such as nail polish, hair ties, scrunchies, comb/brush, etc.

This is all we have to share for now.  As we receive more information from donation areas regarding their needs we will then put out a yearly list.  We do know that March and April will be focused on spring/ summer clothing for kids.  
Many, many thanks from Sew For Kids and from families on the Rez for your kind hearts and skillful hands.  If you would like to join our working group Sew For Kids Volunteers you may do so here.  

Christmas and Giving Tuesday

Snow has already made an appearance on Pine Ridge so that means the Christmas season is rapidly approaching!  SFK and partner groups have been busy the last two months sending coats, hats, mittens, scarves, blankets and boots/shoes to our donation areas so families are prepared for the colder weather they’re experiencing.  The next 5 weeks are crunch time for members of our groups as they will be busy crafting or buying gifts to send to our donation areas for their Christmas parties in December.  This is the eighth year for Penny’s Doll Program and SFK members are busy putting the finishing touches on their dolls and wardrobes for the long trip to their new homes.  Looking at the beautiful pictures of their dolls in the group we’re sure there are going to be a lot of happy girls in SD this year! Christmas needs are after the area updates

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Marty Indian School

The Halloween party was held last week at Marty Indian School with many party supplies and costumes being donated (and crafted) by some of our members.  One of the room parents (who wishes to remain anonymous) donated funds for pizza, salad and fruit for the party meal.  The students enjoyed dressing up, having a parade and trick or treating at the tribal offices.  Thanks to everyone that helped make this a special day for the students. 

The Buffalo Shop opened for business, as reported in our last blog, and is an important resource for students needing clothing, shoes, school supplies, books, toys, etc.  Older students work in the store as cashiers, monitor inventory and stock shelves, all skills that will help them prepare for their own job someday.  We’re working with some of the staff to set up a teacher resource section in the library.  Your monetary donations are providing healthy snacks for students that are high in protein and fats so stomachs stay full longer giving them the energy needed to focus in class.  We would like to send a special thanks to the two teachers SFK is working with that are instrumental to the program’s success. They shop and pick up food on their own time for the snack program and then coordinate the distribution of the food to all the students in grades K-5.  Your donations to the snack program allows Lakota Friends Circle to maintain an account at the grocery store in Armour, SD where the teachers shop.  Thanks to everyone that has made this program possible!

Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health

The two baby programs we serve are both seeing many new clients that have or will soon have given birth to their new babies.  Both programs continue to see the mom’s and their babies until they reach 2 years of age.  Members love helping these programs because in addition to providing essentials for babies, women receive education about child care and health care for themselves and their babies which includes immunizations and screening for developmental or physical issues that can be addressed early when it’s most likely to have a positive outcome.  Members of our groups have been busy sending warm clothing, blankets, baby books, diaper bags, toys, toiletries and small gift items for mom’s.  Your generous donations have allowed Lakota Friends Circle to send recurring monthly shipments of diapers and wipes, formula, toiletries for mom and baby, and specialty items such as sitz baths and solar lights.  Some moms live in homes without indoor plumbing or electricity so wipes and alcohol based hand sanitizer are needed as well.  Many thanks for your generosity!

Wanblee Child Youth and Elder Program

Warm blankets, coats and clothing are already being donated to this program headed by Jerome and Theresa High Horse.  A Halloween Carnival was held last week for the children, members of our groups helped by sending food and party supplies for their special day.  Jerome says the Woodchucks have been out cutting wood over the past weekend for the 30+ households that use wood stoves as their main heating source during the winter months.  He is also getting an estimate for water and electric hook ups for the trailers we had moved over 2 years ago.  We had given up on them as nothing had been done since they were moved to their permanent locations, hopefully some families will get a new home sometime soon.  The trailers came completely furnished so we’re hoping there have been no thefts while unoccupied. 

Children in Need of Care-Gathering Our Children Home

Members of all groups have generously provided this facility with much needed clothing, blankets, bedding, school supplies, books and many other needs.  Children are referred here by Child Protective Services after they’ve been removed from their homes due to neglect and/or abuse. Parents have to attend parenting classes and provide a stable home environment to regain custody of their children.  The home is currently full to capacity as it is most of the time.  You can read more about the work LFC and partner groups are doing in the fall edition of the newsletter.

Maggie’s House

Is still waiting to open due to furnace issues.  Clients are young adults aged 17-24 that need supervision to get their lives back on track after dealing with substance abuse issues and/or homelessness.  Although the building is not ready for occupation, clients are receiving assistance 3 times a week by staff.  We’re keeping our fingers crossed the repairs can be made in a timely manner before the harsh weather sets in.

Christmas Needs

1. Marty Indian School – Room parents provide gifts for their respective classes but small gift items for the Buffalo Shop are needed.  Kids like to shop in the store for their families and they also need gift wrap/bags, tape and ribbon/bows.
2. Bright Start and RST – Both can use safe toys and books for babies through age 2 and warm clothing to 3T.  Small gift items for mom’s are always welcome.
3. Wild Horse Butte/Sacred Shawl – WHB will hold their annual Christmas party/Dinner in December with most of the town attending.  Gift items are held back throughout the year from your donations but they can still use most items from the lists below especially for teens and elders.  Sacred Shawl will have a party at the shelter for clients (around 20-30) and can use gifts for kids up to age 12 and women.
4. Children in Need of Care – Capacity at the home is 12 and we anticipate it will be full at Christmas.  Gift items for babies through age 12 are welcome.  
5. Wanblee Area – We have not received word from the High Horse’s about a Christmas party but Jerome and Theresa are always giving out gifts to their community or outlying areas during the Holidays.  They serve all age groups from babies to elders, any gift items for them would be welcomed.
6. White Buffalo Calf Women Society – Has a total capacity of 35 women and children with room for abused men off site at area hotels. They can use gift items for women, men and children up to age 13.

Gift lists for various age groups can be found in a previous blog here, just scroll down. Please send your gifts by the first week of December so your packages arrive in plenty of time, addresses are here. Use the Give Back Box to save money on shipping. Gifts may be wrapped (attach a label noting age and gender) or left unwrapped. If you have any extra, include gift bags, wrapping paper, tape, etc. in your box, they would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all for helping make Christmas special for our friends on South Dakota Reservations!

Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is November 29, 2022 and is the same day as South Dakota Day of Giving. This day of giving and sharing is Lakota Friends Circle’s major fundraiser for the year. Since LFC does not have a fundraising staff or program they rely on the generosity of supporters that believe in their work to fund their organization. This year their goal is to raise enough money to open an emergency propane fund and to purchase a dependable vehicle for Children in Need of Care facility. Currently employees of both organizations are using their own cars to transport women and children to court and medical appointments and to pick up those who are in crisis situations and get them to safety. Their cars aren’t the most reliable and are always in need of repair which isn’t good when you’re driving across remote areas of the Rez. Please give if you can, every donation, no matter the size, is greatly appreciated.

If you want to check us out on our Sew For Kids Volunteer facebook group where we share patterns, photos, ideas etc, hit here

Thank you all for whatever you do to help the recipients in the organizations we help. We can not do it without YOU !

September/October Project and Area Updates

Our new project runs through October and is a combination of preparing families for the upcoming winter season and getting our gifts ready for Christmas.  Although fall doesn’t arrive for another week and a half, it’s never too early to begin preparing, we’ve seen weather on the Rez change from hot one day to a snowstorm the next.  All of the areas we serve will need our help with warm winter items.  Any other specific needs will be listed in each area’s updates.

September/October “Winter/Christmas Begins”

• Clothing – Sew or purchase winter clothing; pants, sweatshirts, PJ’s, long underwear, heavier weight socks in sizes 3 months through adult 2-3 X.
• Outerwear – Winter coats, hoodies, snow pants, snowsuits, mittens/gloves, hats, scarves, cowls in sizes infant through adult 2-3 X.
• Boots/Shoes – Snow or hiking boots/shoes to fit toddler through 13 adult.
• Blankets – Including quilts, fleece blankets, afghans and receiving blankets for babies.  All sizes needed up to queen size.
• Christmas Gifts – Begin working on projects or finish up gifts started early.

Please send your donations to any of the areas we serve, addresses are here.  Please no sizes over 3T for Bright Start and RST Maternal and Child Health but they welcome small gift items and toiletries for mothers.

Sew For Kids would like to thank everyone that sent school supplies and clothing for kids who started the new school year in August.  With inflation and possibly a recession in our future, parents can barely afford to feed their children and really need our help to cover things they have no way to buy.  Donations to the baby programs were needed as well and much appreciated by the nurses running the programs and the new mothers.  Members of “Sew For Kids”, including a group of 6 in our group called “Heart and Sewl”, “For The Children of PRR and Rosebud”, “We Sew Love” and monetary donations from “Lakota Friends Circle” were able to meet many needs of the programs we serve on 3 reservations.  We know many of you may be struggling too with the changes in the economy and we really appreciate your generosity. 

Marty Elementary Indian School

Members of SFK have been busy sending clothing, toys and other goods for the Buffalo Shop (formerly the Feather Store).  Kids earn “Buffalo Bucks” for demonstrating the 7 Dakota values; Praying, Respect, Caring and Compassion, Honesty and Truth, Generosity and Caring, Humility, and Wisdom.  One of our members made small bags for the students to keep their buffalo bucks in until they spend them in the store. Thanks Penny N!  Students in grades 3-5 will help in the store this year serving as cashiers and stockers where they will learn how to run a cash register, perform a retail transaction, keep track of inventory and keep shelves stocked.  They will be using and improving their math skills, learning the basics of running a store and some of the responsibilities of holding a job.  Students will be encouraged to take a book when shopping to read themselves or with a parent or sibling and then add it to their home library.   

Students were tested the first week of school and the results showed they need to work on their math and reading skills as do most young students across the country.  Everyone fell behind during the Covid lockdown.  The SFK Room Parent program continues again this year with 2 room parents per class in grades K-5 helping teachers with school supplies, party supplies, books and other needs they may have.  Other members of the group will help with donations to the Buffalo Shop to keep their shelves stocked.  .

Lakota Friends Circle will provide healthy snacks 2 days a week, Monday when they come back to school and Friday so they get a little something extra for the weekend where the home food supply may be limited, especially at the end of the month when food stamps have run out. LFC recently opened an account with a grocery in Armour, SD and deposited $400 for the purchase of perishable snacks such as meat and cheese.  One of the teachers will pick up the food on her way to school in the morning.  They are ordering other snacks from Sam’s Club, Costco and Amazon for teachers to keep in the classroom.  Room parents can provide additional snacks if they wish but LFC will provide any extra snacks needed during testing in addition to the 2 days a week.  Members of the SFK Doll Program sell some of their extra outfits to other members that don’t have time to sew for their doll, the proceeds are donated to LFC for the snack program. The school cook is preparing much better meals this year so that is certainly good news for students.  

The school is starting a resource library for teachers so if you have any books, workbooks, teaching aids, etc. please send them to the school to the attention of Peggy Jakopak.  Students are deficient in science too so they welcome any age appropriate (and fun) books on science and science experiments too.  Mrs. Jakopak has arranged for some area organizations to come in and teach science experiments to the kids which should be fun. 

The school got a new playground this summer which is great news for the kids!  They can always use equipment for the playground such as basketballs, soccer balls, sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, frisbees, etc.  Winter clothes and outerwear are needed, some items have come in but certainly not enough for all the students.   

Wild Horse Butte/Sacred Shawl

The kids headed back to school in Martin on August 16.  A Back To School parade and a walk against Child Abuse and Neglect (physical, sexual, emotional trauma) was held on August 20 with a high turnout from the community.  After the parade kids received gifts of school supplies, backpacks and other fun items donated by SFK, For the Children of PRR and Rosebud and some local community groups. Many thanks to everyone that made this event possible. 

The Wild Horse Butte baby program is active and doing well.  LFC is still sending monthly auto deliveries of diapers, formula and baby wipes and members of SFK and partner groups are busy sending toys, clothing, and blankets.  Members are also busy working on blankets and stuffed animals for naptime for the 50 Head Start students in Martin.  Books are always welcome for Head Start classes so teachers have different books to read to the kids.  Thanks to everyone that is helping with that program.

The Sacred Shawl Shelter was able to outfit their rooms with new or gently used sheets, blankets and pillows which they were very thankful to receive.  Sadly they have a full house most of the time.  LFC sends monthly shipments of laundry detergent, dish soap, toilet paper and other supplies as needed.  The van they use at the shelter is in need of repair and LFC will help with that cost if the van is found to be worthy of repair.  They need the van to pick up women in crisis and to transport clients to medical and court appointments.  Children do attend school if their mother needs time to recover from a trauma and staff is looking for a safe place for them to live.   

Needs for the shelter and Wild Horse Butte are warm clothing and outerwear for ages 3 months to adult. We will start working this month on Christmas gifts as they would love to have them for the kids and teens in the community. Elders always love to get a gift as well – hats, mittens or gloves, warm blankets, sweaters or coats, toiletries, incontinent products, denture tablets, tea bags, non sugar cookies, coffee, sugar substitute, socks, underwear, and bags are all appropriate for elders. November is the big push to finish everything and get mailed by the first week of December. Please send your donations and Christmas gifts to Wild Horse Butte and use the Give Back Box program to get a good shipping rate on your box.

Child in Need of Care Facility  

Is a facility for children that are victims of child abuse and neglect.  Sadly this facility also has a full house and is usually full most of the time.  Porcupine school donated the building for the organization and they’re licensed by the state for a maximum of 12 children.  Kids come and go but many stay longer than the maximum time allowed if there is no other place for them to go.  Finding a foster home or placement with a relative takes time and often there are neither available.  Some of the children are disabled and many are young babies which both require more staff as more care is needed for them.  Child Protective Services sends the cases to the facility and pays the worker salaries through the state daily allotment per child, but many times they are late in their payment so another problem for the home to solve.  Sometimes they use workers from the tribal program but they do receive additional training from the home staff.  Their salaries are paid by the tribe.       

Recently the kids who were eligible went back to school.   SFK members provided donations of clothing, school supplies and book bags to get them ready. They have several children who needed glasses and they had to make sure they were physically healthy and their immunizations were up to date before they could attend school.  The facility needs a van to transport children to school and medical and court appointments but that will probably not happen in the near future due to the shortage and expense of new and used vehicles.  They also need an outside shed which LFC plans to provide financing for once their 501c3 is reinstated.   

Thanks to your generosity they were able to celebrate several children’s birthdays and each child received a gift donated by one of you.  Barb Dull Knife always comments on the quality of the gifts that come from our group.  Thank you all for those wonderful gifts!   

Several organizations are helping the home with electric bills and food and with their day to day operating costs, including Lakota Friends Circle.  LFC pays for phone and internet service, provides gift cards for gas and perishables such as milk and eggs, and sends regular shipments of diapers, formula, snacks, office supplies, toilet paper, and laundry/dish detergent.  When Barb needs help with heating, LFC steps up and fills the tank made possible through generous donations to their nonprofit by all of you.  Members of SFK and other partner groups send clothing, shoes, books, toys, snacks, etc.  Another group came this past weekend and brought a sofa, table and chairs and mattresses, all used but in good condition.  Kids are hard on furnishings, especially mattresses and they do need replacing periodically.  The group also bought supplies to fix the shade covering in the back play area and steps.  The work will be done by the day supervisor’s husband as the group is based in Colorado and cannot visit very often.    

They need to update their 501c3 status and until that process is complete they’re not eligible to apply for grants.  They do have some money received from the tribe through the Covid relief plan, but there is some red tape trying to access those funds.  The tribe will help with their $14,000 insurance premium and hopefully the extra salaries when unexpected events happen such as the extra $5,000 in salaries needed to cover the employees that sat with several children who were hospitalized after contracting pneumonia.    

Warm clothing for the kids 0-14 is needed but we will wait for staff to let us know what they need and specific sizes.  

Maggie’s House 

Maggie’s House helps young adults aged 17-24 to get their lives together after being homeless, abusing drugs/alcohol or other problems that have impacted their lives negatively.  The maximum stay is 22 months but some may leave well before that time.  This program hopes to expand their services by building tiny houses on the property where those who need further supervision can live asking for help when needed.  Future plans are to plant a garden but fencing and other needs will have to be finished before they can begin.   

They had planned to be open by now but they’re dealing with an old building and have had to make major repairs to the heating system.  Now they’re replacing all the lighting and updating the plumbing.  Director Pauletta Red Willow has secured funding for the salary of one of her staff and hopes to have funds for the other 2 very soon.  They are currently serving their clients, just not as residents of the home.  They are open 3 days a week for clients to receive help with applying for food stamps, college, jobs or any other needs they may have.    

They’re so thankful for the food items, school supplies and toiletries from SFK but won’t need anything else until they are officially open.  We will keep you updated when that happens and post any needs they may have.   

Bright Start

Mary Mousseau wishes to thank everyone for the wonderful gifts she’s received for both babies and mom’s.  The moms really appreciate the help and the babies benefit from your gifts. Babies will need warm items for winter – blankets, snowsuits, coats, hats and mittens, warm pj’s, sleepers and sleepsacks, and Mom’s can use coats, hats and mittens/gloves as well.  Lakota Friends Circle sends monthly shipments of  diapers, formula, wipes, and toiletries all made possible by your generous monetary donations to them. 

Mary has 3 new clients that have no running water in their homes, the tribe does deliver water to them but if they run out they must depend on friends to bring more.  Mary says if homes have no water they should be using hand sanitizer.  One of the moms lives in a dilapidated trailer about 15 miles from town with her baby, a sibling and their mother.  Mary is worried about how they will survive the winter.  They have no electricity so use candles or flashlights for light and propane to cook with.  They need blankets, sheets. pillows/pillowcases, and towels. They have no beds and sleep on mattresses on the floor which has to be cold and drafty.  They do have an old Rez car that needs a new tire but use it only to go to town for groceries or appointments.  It’s a very bad situation and we’re waiting to hear how we might help this family.  Mary’s client is young and was recently admitted to the hospital for an infection, the baby went with her as she is breast feeding.  She is home now but her life is a struggle.  The other day rain poured through the trailer roof.  Mary called the  police and they took the family to the casino hotel for a week with the tribe’s approval. FEMA came out and told the tribe they needed to get water and electricity in the home asap.  The tribe plans to update all tribal homes that need electric and water but when is the big question.  This family will still need lots of help even if the best case scenario happens and they do get water and electric.  We’re keeping our fingers crossed and will keep you all updated on this family and their needs.      

RST Maternal and Child Health

This tribal program makes home visits to women with high risk pregnancies and after delivery until their child is 2 years old.  Sandi Wilcox recently spoke with Carol and sends her thanks and appreciation for everything our groups have sent.  She will need all the same clothing items as Mary but asks that we delay shipping until October as they have limited space in the building they use.  They are also recipients of LFC’s monthly shipments of diapers, toiletries and baby wipes.       

Wanblee Child, Youth and Elder Program

Jerome and Theresa High Horse welcome warm items for all ages and sizes, 3 months through adult.  Shipments to Wanblee cannot use the Give Back Box program because their carrier (UPS) will only deliver to commercial buildings and the High Horse’s address is their home (residential).  We asked if they would be willing to pick up their boxes from Wild Horse Butte in Martin (about 30 miles away) but they said no, so your boxes will have to be mailed at the current rate from your carrier.   

UPS workers are currently in contract negotiations with their company for a pay increase so there is always the possibility for a strike if talks break down and there is also the possibility of a price increase from the company for the Give Back Box program.  We will keep you updated on any changes to that program.   

White Buffalo Calf Women’s Society

We have had very little contact with the organization due to unanswered phone calls and messages.  While we’re not discouraging you from sending to them we’re not encouraging you either.  It’s a great organization and they certainly provide many services for their community but without direct contact with someone there, we have no way of knowing how or if our help is needed.  Members of our partner group, “For the Children of PRR and Rosebud”, continues to send to them so they are receiving some help but they too receive little feedback.    

White Clay Nursing Home

This nursing home in White Clay, Nebraska which currently has 35 residents (capacity is 60),  could use some help for their residents.  If you are interested in helping these elders you can visit this Ravelry site of “For the Children of PRR and Rosebud to learn how you can help.   

There are also many elders that use the programs at Wild Horse Butte in Martin and from the High Horse’s in Wanblee so your donations can be sent there too. 

 

Thank you all for your continued support of the areas we serve.  If you ever doubt your donations are needed or appreciated, just think about Mary’s new client, she is not an isolated case. There are so many more just like her, and some in much worse situations.    

Please join us on our Sew For Kids Volunteer group if you would like to meet new friends, share patterns and ideas and work together on projects.  Sew For Kids works with the non profit Lakota Friends Circle please visit their website to learn other ways you can help the areas we serve.