Winter will be here soon, as the recent drop in temperatures and increase in wind gusts can attest. While for most people the cold weather just causes them to turn up the thermostat and eat more soup, there are many people in Sioux Falls who do not have that luxury. In 2017, over 965 school-aged children in Sioux Falls were identified as homeless- a number that is too high with the sub-zero weather that is expected.

The dropping temperature also brings up another problem, which is something that students can easily make a difference in. There is a severe shortage of food in food banks in Sioux Falls. Feeding South Dakota has seen a 15 percent increase in the amount of people needing help this year. This increase has placed strain on their inventory, creating worry for the future- especially during holiday seasons.

The pantry is in most need of canned fruit and vegetables, boxed cereal and any canned protein, but they are always in need of any non-perishable food items. These items go to families who rely almost completely on Feeding South Dakota’s program, making the lack of food a dangerous situation.

To solve this problem, there are many opportunities to help. Currently the 6th annual Turkey Drive is going on, where you can donate money to provide a Thanksgiving meal to those in need. If you would rather donate food items, you can drop them off at any of their locations between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. They are also in need of personal care items such as toothbrushes, diapers, shampoo and deodorant. If you want to help check out their website at: http://feedingsouthdakota.org.