The Cheyenne River Youth Project announced today that it is on track to serve more than 500 children in this year’s School Supplies Drive. On Thursday, Aug. 10, CRYP distributed school supplies to 355 children at its Čhokáta Wičhóni (Center of Life) teen center in Eagle Butte, and staff members are continuing to work with the local community to ensure that Cheyenne River’s children have everything they need for the first day of school.
Throughout this month, the nonprofit organization has been working closely with Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation schools to distribute additional school supplies to classrooms that need extra support. The youth project also is connecting with families who were unable to attend the dedicated distribution event.
“Last year, we served almost 200 additional children through late pickups and connecting with teachers,” explained Jerica Widow, CRYP’s programs manager. “We expect to meet or even exceed those numbers this year.
“We’re deeply grateful to each and every person who made a contribution to this program,” she continued. “Whether you sponsored a child, purchased supplies through our Amazon wish list, or sent supplies directly, you helped make the back-to-school season a joyful one for our kids.”
The annual School Supplies Drive is a major component of CRYP’s long-running Family Services program, which was created in 2002. This important initiative provides access to school supplies, shoes, winter clothing, household supplies, baby items, and the beloved Wo Otuh’an Wi Toy Drive, which will celebrate its 33rd anniversary this holiday season.
A 2024 Family Services membership is required to participate in this year’s Toy Drive. From Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, CRYP will be offering memberships at a discounted rate of $25; that will cover all of the household’s family members. For more information, call the CRYP office at (605) 964-8200.
And to learn more about the Cheyenne River Youth Project and its programs, and for information about making donations and volunteering, call (605) 964-8200 or visit www.lakotayouth.org. And, to stay up to date on the latest CRYP news and events, follow the youth project on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
The Cheyenne River Youth Project, founded in 1988, is a grassroots, not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing the youth of the Cheyenne River reservation with access to a vibrant and secure future through a wide variety of culturally sensitive and enduring programs, projects and facilities that ensure strong, self-sufficient families and communities.