By the time our 10-week Summer Youth Feeding Program (SYFP), which began on June 3 and ends this Friday, August 9, 19,600 meals and “take-n-go” snack bags will have been distributed – all in just 49 weekdays!
The program served approximately 200 children and youth daily at three locations on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation. The Summer Youth Feeding Program demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fighting child hunger on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation in South Dakota.
Since its inception in 2005, the SYFP has been a lifeline for children on the reservation who would otherwise face food insecurity during the summer months when school-provided meals are unavailable. The program’s impact extends far beyond mere sustenance, promoting health, well-being, and readiness for the upcoming school year.
The SYFP operated at three key locations on the reservation: the Red Scaffold Catholic Church in Red Scaffold, the Boys & Girls Club in LaPlante, and the nutrition center in Cherry Creek. These sites are more than just meal distribution points; they are community hubs where children gather for nourishment and social interaction. Each location plays a vital role in the program’s success, ensuring that children from different parts of the reservation have access to nutritious meals.
One of the standout features of the SYFP is its “open site” policy, which means that any child or youth under 18 can come and enjoy a free, nutritious meal without any barriers. This inclusivity ensures that no child goes hungry and that all can benefit from the program’s offerings. The meals not only prevent hunger but also support the children’s overall health and happiness, keeping them energized and ready for school when classes resume in late August.
Running Strong for American Indian Youth® has demonstrated a long-term commitment to addressing food insecurity on the Cheyenne River reservation. By consistently funding and operating the SYFP for nearly two decades, the organization has become a cornerstone of support for the community. This steadfast dedication ensures that children are not only fed but also cared for and valued.
Running Strong’s SYFP exemplifies the power of compassion, community, and commitment. By ensuring that children on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation have access to nutritious meals during the summer, the program not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term health and well-being. The SYFP is a beacon of hope and a testament to what can be achieved through dedicated support and collective effort.
All of this prompted one grateful grandmother this month to write: “I would like to thank Running Strong for feeding the children in the community of LaPlant. I am very thankful that they feed the children in need. This helps out our community and families.”
