On the Pine Ridge Reservation, distance is everything. For our kids, “getting help” usually means a 60-mile trek to Pine Ridge for court or mandatory medical intakes, or a 170-mile haul to Rapid City for specialists, pharmacy, and food.
The frequency of these trips is high and often unpredictable—when a new child arrives, they immediately require two mandatory medical check-ups in Pine Ridge.
When abuse has been detected (all too often), a social worker has to be present and weekly counseling sessions are needed. These take place in Kyle.
The staff is driving their older, high-mileage cars that gulp gas. We may allocate a small stipend, such as $5 per trip to the drivers. We cannot let a child miss a doctor’s visit or a counseling session because we couldn’t afford the tank of gas to get there.
That’s where you come in. When you sponsor a route, you’re literally fueling a child’s healing—whether it’s an intake exam in Kyle, a trip to the pharmacy, or a powwow to reconnect with Lakota tradition. Every dollar keeps the wheels turning and the child sitting in that seat never misses a chance to heal. Join us as a Road Warrior today and help us bridge the gap between trauma and hope, one mile at a time.
📍 2026 Fuel Lifeline
Porcupine, SD • Fueling 12 Seats of Hope
Distance is the greatest barrier to care. With fuel at $4.03/gallon and vehicles averaging 8 MPG, every mile is an investment. Sponsor a route below to help the children on the road to recovery.
Covers approx. 2,000 miles—ensuring we are ready for the unpredictable frequency of intakes in Pine Ridge and medical emergencies all month long.
Covers 1 of the 2 mandatory medical check-ups for new arrivals, or legal/court travel.
Fueling consistent behavioral health support and therapy in Kyle for every child.
Vital trips to Rapid City for chronic care specialists and wholesale food runs.
Fueling seasonal trips to Powwows and sacred sites for spiritual healing.
Donate with your phone.
Check donations address:
Lakota Friends Circle
c/o Patricia Mason, Treasurer
125 Pine Tree Drive
Lake Placid, FL 33852
Make your check payable to Lakota Friends Circle.
Let us know that you are donating for gas for the foster children.
Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult with your tax professional or financial advisor to determine the specific tax benefits of your gift.