How many donations does CHS get from folks with no income, no savings and no resources? Not too many.

But on January 7, a $500 check was presented to Children’s Inn by South Dakota State Penitentiary Warden Darin Young on behalf of the Lakota/Dakota/Nakota (LDN) Spiritual Group, an organization of Native inmates in the prison.

The check presentation was covered by KELO-TV, The Argus Leader, Dakota News Now and the Lakota Times.

"The meaning behind this donation is far greater than the amount of the check,” says Children’s Inn Operations Director Amy Carter. “This group of inmates wanted to give back to us because we serve their family members and others who are impacted by domestic violence or child abuse.”

Daniel Augustine, Cheyenne River Tribe citizen and LDN Spiritual Group President, writes, “As Lakota, Dakota and Nakota men, we learn from a young age to honor, cherish, respect and protect all women and children. We know the good that organizations like yours do for the mothers and kids who are victims of domestic violence and we hope that this gift of $500 helps you help another child this winter season.”

The funds, usually earmarked for quarterly wacipis (powwows) at the prison, have been unused due to COVID-19 restrictions.

LDN Vice President and Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate citizen Zachariah Ryan explains, “According to our traditional teachings, the women are revered as sacred beings and are the keepers of our sacred life ways. It was a woman, Pte San Win (White Buffalo Calf Woman) who brought us our most sacred vessel, the Pte Hincala Cannupa (Calf Pipe). So, it is a great honor for us to send you this donation.”

“We thank you for taking care of our women and children who are struggling,” Ryan continues. “Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts.”

In addition to the check, the LDN group also donated a painting of a woman and child created by an inmate.

Carter says, “While they may be limited in what they can do while serving their time, this is something they could do.”

“It will make a big difference to those we serve and help in breaking the cycle of violence. We are honored they chose Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety," she says.