KYLE, SD — Yesterday, a large fire reported around 5:30 am destroyed a senior apartment complex on the Pine Ridge reservation, displacing more than 60 and hospitalizing at least one.
The fire, which first responders spent the day combating, led to the evacuation of 22 units total and prompted the involvement of the American Red Cross, who activated their disaster response team in order to bring relief to displaced and injured individuals.
The Red Cross aided residents in temporary relocation to a nearby school. “Our immediate focus is ensuring residents have support for essential needs such as shelter, food, and physical and emotional health. We will continue working alongside community partners to help keep everyone safe amid extreme cold and high winds,” said the organization via Facebook.
According to the Oglala Sioux Tribes Emergency Management Facebook, local organizations are providing additional relief to residents. Emergency Management thanked involved response and relief organizations, and the community for their support in light of the disaster.
In the wake of this event and an anticipated cold snap on Friday, the page has called upon the kindness of the local community for aid by donating needed supplies to Oyate Tetca Project. Currently needed items include hygiene items, blankets, sleeping bags, towels, and nonperishable food items.
