Under South Dakota’s vast skies, the road stretched long and endless. From the bluffs of Chamberlain to the rocky edges of Pine Ridge, a St. Joseph’s Indian School vehicle rolled along highway and gravel bearing more than just food. It carried intention, care and the invisible threads of kinship.
In some Native American communities across South Dakota, food insecurity remains an ongoing challenge, especially during the summer months when students spend time with their families away from St. Joseph’s. That’s why, with help from our generous thiyóšpaye — extended family — of supporters, we continued our summer food box outreach program.
This was the fifth summer St. Joseph’s Indian School delivered food boxes to families in reservation communities. Through face-to-face visits, warm greetings and the simple joy of showing up when needed most, St. Joseph’s met real needs with real compassion.
This summer, our team traveled hundreds of miles across South Dakota in June and July to deliver 203 food boxes to Native American children and families in: Brandon, Chamberlain, Eagle Butte, Fort Pierre, Fort Thompson, Gann Valley, Kyle, Lower Brule, Manderson, Marty, Mission, Mitchell, Oglala, Parmelee, Pierre, Pine Ridge, Rapid City, Rosebud, Sioux Falls, Two Strike, Wagner and White River.
In communities too distant for a safe, fresh food delivery, St. Joseph’s provided grocery gift cards, helping families overcome financial strain while preserving food quality.
“The food deliveries this year went as smoothly as they could have gone,” said Coleman, St. Joseph’s Residential Liaison who helps coordinate this outreach. “Our families are very appreciative of our food deliveries, and it’s always a plus when we can see our students during the summer months.”
These boxes aren’t just meals. They’re messages of compassion in action. A typical box includes a mix of canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, rice, peanut butter, meat, snacks, cereal and sauces to name a few. Recipients also received two large cases of bottled water.
Why is this outreach so important? Food insecurity impacts much more than empty stomachs. It can stunt growth, impair focus and delay progress in school. By standing beside families during the summer months, we’re lifting burdens and nourishing students, so they are ready to reach for a brighter future in the fall.
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me … ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.’” — Matthew 25:35-40
This initiative is about community, resilience and shared hope. Thanks to the steadfast generosity of our supporters (like you!), that hope is traveling — one box, one community, one smile at a time.
Learn more about outreach programs your generosity provides by visiting stjo.org today!
