Update from One Spirit

On Thanksgiving, Together Rising shared that, through your generosity, we were able to donate $400,000 to our friends at One Spirit, a non-profit primarily led by indigenous people, and committed to the Oglala Lakota peoples struggling to stay warm on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. We want to update you on how your funds for heat and food helped the Lakota take a giant leap towards warmth and self-sufficiency.

With the polar vortex sweeping through this year, there was an increased urgent need for wood. In addition to providing wood for families, through your gifts, One Spirit was able to empower several local people, including George, to support themselves while serving the community.  George, who had been sober for 19 months, wanted to help build his life and protect his community by working to make wood and heat accessible. Through your donations, One Spirit bought the equipment he needed -- chainsaws and log splitter -- and let him pay back the loan while he worked. Instead of being paid the customary $150 a load, George earned  $100 until the loan was paid off. He’s now running his business debt free. George hires local people to help him. During this winter George delivered about 40 loads of wood and while delivering also checked on people's stoves to ensure that they are safe. George explains that through his sobriety, he helps his people stay warm.