The small community of Wanblee (“eagle” in Lakota) is located in Jackson County, South Dakota about 100 miles NE (map) of the village of Pine Ridge, the central district of the reservation and home of tribal government agencies. Because of it’s relative isolation from the center of the reservation, people in Wanblee don’t have access to the same resources as those living in the more central areas. Most donations from charitable organizations are taken to Pine Ridge for distribution which means those in outlying just do without as they don’t have the means to travel into town.
Food is always an issue in Wanblee as it is on reservations across the US. Most residents rely on food stamps (SNAP) and commodities, provided by the USDA’s Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). Commodities may last a few days or a week at the most and food stamps don’t go very far if folks are shopping at the local convenience store/gas station where fresh foods and meat are in short supply and convenience foods and snack/junk foods abound. Those that are lucky enough to have transportation make the 200 mile round trip to shop at Walmart in Rapid City.
Another major issue for families is affording propane to heat their homes. Winter temperatures can dip below -30 and in homes with little or no insulation and ill fitting or missing windows and doors, keeping your family warm is a constant battle. The federal government’s LIHEAP program does provide some assistance but the program is severely underfunded and funds are available on a first come first serve basis. Families are faced with the decision of buying food or propane, they can’t afford both.
How We Help
Lakota Friends Circle provide funding to keep the Kennedy Hall open and usable even in the heart of Winter. We have been paying for the electrical to heat this community center. We have also provided necessities such as garbage bags, as needed.
We send gifts to the local volunteers at Christmas time.
Our partner groups are sending blankets and warm clothing. We respond to special requests for Elders or handicapped children.
If you would like to support the Wanblee area please make a donation here and specify “Wanblee” in the comments box. Thank You!