Pine Ridge NOTE Change of Address for sending supplies - formerly blankets for Pine R

[dr-mom]

Hi

This Spring I made a trip to the Pine Ridge Indian reservation ) I worked for ten years in Haiti, and I had heard that conditions were as bad as in Haiti - but I thought no way - this is the United States. I have to tell I was appalled. The temperature was about 20 and homes had no water, no electricity, no heat, no beds, often windows were missing. I know it is summer, but the perfect time to start thinking about winter.

I was really torn by the babies, infants, with nothing but extra old newspapers sometimes to keep them warm, and the toddlers, no socks, or socks and shoes that had been passed down from 4 or 5 older siblings and had holes on the bottoms. Ok enough I know. But I wanted to tell you I am returning to Pine Ridge late August and am planning to take a cargo van with supplies, and if you might be interested in donating afghans, fleece blankets, ponchos or anything along that line, you can send them to me, by hand delivering I can make sure they are put directly in the hands of those in the most need. For more information on Pine Ridge and the children go to http://www.spirit-rising.org/ (http://www.spirit-rising.org/) it is a non-profit that oversees donations on the reservation. You have more questions for me feel free to contact me at dr-mom@comcast.net

Thanks for listening

Pamela

[rosa]

I'd love to help, the thought of children right here in the US nothaving blankets or beds is horrible, I guess we just don't think of it as happening right here close to us! Plese PM me the address to send afghans and other things to can you use scarfs and ponchos, and hats and mittnes? Maybe you will have to m ake two trips hehe

Rosa

[rosa]

Also do you know anything about sposnoring children? Do they have a program like Save the Children there are something similar?

Rosa

[JesseCat]

You may want to send an e-mail to STITCHESFROMTHE HEART(either .com or .org)...They have ladies all over the country send them baby clothes and afghans to donate to hospitals and have so far sent over 200,000 pieces to premmies and babies in hospitals...They would help enormously....

[SassyThreads]

Here is there websiteIndian Health Service | Friends of Pine Ridge Reservation (http://friendsofpineridgereservation.org/organizations/indianhealthservice.shtml)

I belong to a crochet charity group that will be denoting to them as well. They have so many needs it is overwhelming:(

[dr-mom]

You may want to send an e-mail to STITCHESFROMTHE HEART(either .com or .org)...They have ladies all over the country send them baby clothes and afghans to donate to hospitals and have so far sent over 200,000 pieces to premmies and babies in hospitals...They would help enormously....

Thanks Jeanie I will look into that

[Ambersafghans]

"Also do you know anything about sposnoring children? Do they have a program like Save the Children there are something similar?"

Are you talking general sponsoring or in that area? I sponsor a child in Haiti through www.gfa.org (http://www.gfa.org). It's $21 a month and a great organization. Worth Checking out. :)

Amber

[kittencrochet]

Spirit Rising does have a sponsorship program, though different from what you'd norrmally expect. You have a few times during the year (birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving, start of school, Easter...forget what else) that have mandatory's. You have to send them certain things....like for the start of school....an outfit and new shoes. You have direct contact with the child and their family. I sponsor a boy through them. The particular family I sponsor has an awful time with mold in their house...with asthmatic kids. And they are yet to recieve any help with it.


I really could go on and on about the conditions on the reservations...and not just Pine Ridge. It is so sad to see these people who were once so proud and self-efficient being reduced to the conditions they live in. And the elders....it is heart wrenching to see some of the elders. Yet they struggle on. Alcoholism is a huge problem for Natives. There are no bars on the res...but they set up just outside.

Every year we send money to an organization that supplies food baskets and stoves to the Navajo people. We've also sent blankets, clothes, diapers, etc. One thing they are always in need of on the res is...and you're not going to believe this....sanitary napkins!!!!!! They have a limited supply and are expensive on the res. I've sent countless boxes.

As I'm sure Pamela has seen firsthand, the Res is like a whole other world. Just outside the Res, life seems like in any other place in the country. But life there is totally different. What we have access to everyday is a big thing to them. I'm planning to make a trip out west in the next 2 years and bring lots of stuff with me...blankets, coffee, cigarettes, toiletries, etc.

Pamela, I will be sending you an e-mail. I'll see what I can do about sending out some stuff that I know can definetly be used. Thanks so much for addressing this!

[tween]

Pine Ridge is in MY state, I've been there numerous times, & yes the conditions of both the people & the housing will bring tears to the hardest hearted person. Its unfathomable that this could go on, in the US. Thank you Pamela for bringing this to our attention, & for the awesome offer!! :hug

[dr-mom]

They have a great sponsorship program I sponsor three children. You are assigned the child directly, and you purchase items and send them directly to the family. For instance a school age child you are responsible to help with clothing and school supplies for the first day of school, a care package for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter as well as their birthday, I love directly working with the family as you know what they are getting and you are workging directly with them no one in the organization is a paid employee - Pamela

[dr-mom]

A yarn company has donated yarn to be made into afghans, sweaters, hats, mittens - and anything else that is needed, if you have thought you would like to help but didn't have the yarn and could not afford to do it on your own, please ledt me know and I will got some to you - Pamela

[waterbaby]

Thanks for posting this, and for your efforts. This is a deplorable situation that seems to have to end in sight (so many issues, so many problems, so little assistance from the Powers That Be who are most responsible). Recently I started making cold weather items for future donation which I'll gladly send along and will begin working on more soon. Please PM me your address and let me know the latest date you will need to receive items to be able to take them on your trip.

[dr-mom]

I have now decided to make two trips - the firsst over Labor Day Weekend and the second probably in late Ocotber or early November depending on when it starts snowing here. I am about 13 hours away - but my sister lives half way - so it gives me an place to stay on the way out and the way back. Please send all items to Blankets for Pine Ridge, 6922 East Fish Lake Road, Maple Grove, MN 55369. I have asked Spirit Rising a non-profit to make us part of their effort so all of your work is tax deductible! Pamela

[rosa]

I heard from Pamela that she has been donated yarn specifically for knitting machines - she says it is a thin yarn, I don't know anything about knitting machines or looms, but we must have some people out there how we could get to pitch in if we just spread the word, especially if they are given the yarn, plus we sure don't want her to tell the yarn company no - they may never offer again! Pamela I am committing to five. She ssaid she has five or six people committed - so if we just tell the story I know there are other people out there who care and just don't know how bad things really are, I gave Pamela my regualr email and she sent me a newspaper article about a Pine Ridge family - I was shocked to learn that their are grandpas and grandmas who freeze to death each year, as there is no heat or electiricity and they give their one blanket to the little ones, how can we let this happen right here at home, while we are off fighting the battles of others - ok now I am on s soap box sorry. Rosa

[Sam the Man!]

Pamela Thank you for posting this - I don't know how we canget more people involved. I have been to Pine Ridge as I am originally from SD. When I tell people about the horrible conditions on the reservation I usually get a response like well let their casino pay for it! Well folks not every reservation nas a casino - you really need to live somewhat close to a population base to have a casino! And each reservation is a soverign nation to their own. Look at USSR and how it has broken up into seperate countries well natives are very different people with different relations. I will help all I can I don't often see men on here - but it is time we start caring for others - and take care of the people here at home, people freezing to death in their own homes - and little babies - we can't let that happen. Sam

[quirkyvirgo]

I should be able to do at least 2 blankets. Will any size do?

I would also like to know more about "adopting" a child from the reservation like you had mentioned in earlier posts. I didn't see any information on it in the site that you linked, but may have overlooked it.

Tandi

[aliassak]

This hits really close to home because of the issues associated with Whiteclay. (http://www.journalstar.com/special_section/whiteclay)

It's constantly on the news...

[Sam the Man!]

Yes - right now there are over 500 childen waiting to be sponsored.

Spirit Rising relies on sponsors for children to help provide clothing that protects from the cold and gifts that provide happy moments at birthdays and Christmas while other means are used to help the family with basic necessities. Life is particularly difficult on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Food and Heat are often in short supply. In this population of 40,000 people, children wear boots for shoes in summer time and summer clothes in the winter. They are often without winter coats and too often also without food. Most families will have periods of time when they are without heat or electricity and, even more difficult, periods when they must go without food. Spirit Rising works to supplement these basic needs. Food stamps or commodities run out and there are no food banks or other food resources for those without income - and those without income are many. After school programs have seen a dramatic rise in the number of children attending their programs to take advantage of the snacks offered. It will be the only food they have for dinner.



A typical family waiting for sponsors for the children is a mother and son who live without electricity or running water and often find the basics of food and clothing in short supply. Another family is a grandmother who is caring for 4 grandchildren and two teenage daughters. They do have electricity and water but are often without needed food and clothing. While sponsors are certainly not expected to meet urgent family needs, the sponsorship is one part of our holistic approach for helping families be strong for their children. Sponsors help protect the children from the harsh effects of poverty and Spirit Rising makes every effort to help the family meet basic needs.



We have a waiting list of more than 500 children who live in situations similar to the ones described above. Grandmothers caring for many grandchildren left in their care by parents who have no place to live and no means of supporting the children. Families of 10-20 members who live in 3 bedroom homes that do not have adequate insulation from the cold and that do have extensive black mold problems that leave both children and adults with respiratory problems.



These are proud and independent people who live their traditional spiritual and cultural beliefs and who live in desperate poverty (yes right here in the US). The sponsors and Spirit Rising are making a difference for the children and families of Pine Ridge.

My husband and I currently sponsor 3 children a set of twins and an infnat boy. The sponsorship is unique in that once you make the committment to sponsor a child you are given the families name and a contact telephone number and you go ahead and call them and determine what their needs are. You responsibility is to send a "care" package 5 times a year, the first day of school, birthday, christmas, easter, and thanksgiving. You decide what to buy, and work in into your budget, and you have control of your monies, it is not just sent off into the netherland to be never heard from again.

For more information write to Spirit-Rising@comcast.net

Pamela

[kariholtz]

I will make as many blankets and hats and such as I have time for. I will talk to hubby once our lives settle and we find out about this job he may have about sponsoring a child.

[dr-mom]

My I had messed up on my password and could not get into the site, so I emailed Sam the man and he posed for me - thank you Sam - it is appreciated.

I wanted to add that another neat thing about Spirit Rising is that there are no paid staff - not that at some point they might not need that - but once that happens all stipends will be through corporate sponsorships - about a month ago I "got talked into" serving as the sponsorship coordinator and it is a position close to my heart. I pray that we do not lose even one baby or elder this year due to cold! If anyone has any interst in sponsoring a child, you need only take one please feel free to contact me as Spirit-Rising@comcast.net. Again thanks Sam for helping me out - Pamela

[Simone]

I love making baby things - can you use summer things as well? Like onesies, and little dresses, what about booties and slippers for older children, I could go on and on. I will committ to 2 afghans by august and another 2 for the October trip, and yes I want to sponsor a child, maybe I could do a set of siblings, as we are only talking 5 times a year, I will just throw something in the basket each time, I grow grocery shopping, and our target marks sesonal things down early as the summer things fro kids are marked down 50 and 75% right now. Thank you for telling us about this. I had sponsored a couple of children from the over seas programs but after two years had only received one letter, and I know c chunk of what I sent went to pay salaries. Simone

[dr-mom]

The email for http://www.spirit-rising.org/ (http://www.spirit-rising.org/)

It is spiritrisingsponsorship@comcast.net

I am so sorry - I hope you all read this - pamela

[Sam the Man!]

:cheer Ok I got the right address will go ahead and contact about sponsorship :clap I will make a committment like Simone for two for now and 2 later and to see if I can find two more people.

Sam

[kittencrochet]

my 6 year old son is comitting to making one winter baby hat!:D I'm so proud of him! I have a Knifty Knitter set and he's been plugging away on it. He's got 2 rows done already. He wanted me to type for him...so here goes.

I promise to make a hat for a cute little baby that doesn't have nothing. I promise it will be cuddly soft so they can be snuggly warm in it all winter when it's cold and so they don't freeze. And I can play with yarn with Mommy and have Mommy and me time too so it will be fun.

[dr-mom]

Your mommy did not say your name but it must be something very special and you are a very special young man. That baby hat you make may be the only gift that baby will have every received, and think you will be the one to have given him/her their very first present, do you know how special that is! And I want to give you a big thank you for caring about someone else - what a special gift you must be to you mommy

Pamela and all the babies of Pine Ridge!

[dr-mom]

Any size you like to make would be terrefic form tiny baby to large men's each and every one will be cherished and may be what saves someone's life! thank you Pamela

[rosa]

I love making hats and mittens and it sounds like this is among the things you need right? Sure wish we oculd get more involved any out there got any suggestions, Kitten lov e your little guy for caring you are doing a terrefic job raising him. I want to get involved in the sponsorship and will send an email - will keep you guys posted about that as well - Rosa

[Simone]

Rosa, I don't know - read the story about the penquins and maybe the pictures are what caught people's attention I wonder Pamela do you think you can post any photos of the kids at Pine Ridge or would there be issues of confidentiality? Probably, if you can maybe start a new thread - others what do you think?

moni

[Sam the Man!]

I think that there are a lot of pople out there who care but just don't really know how bad things are - we always think it is somewhere else - and it is Africa, and so on, but we don't know it is right here in our own country - and maybe for some it is too scary to except - other email groups - but a lot of them don't allow posting about charities - Sam

[dr-mom]

Thank you for offering to help - it is so needed and I am so glad to have you on the "bus" to help. When Imake the trip I will take lots of photos and share with everyone. Pamela

[dhaunae]

New Crochetville member here, I've been lurking for a while, joined a couple of days ago, and ... reading those websites just tore my heart out. Yes, you know poverty like this exists, but to have it exist here is unbearable. Sign me up for at least 2 afghans, plus whatever little things I can toss together in time to make the trip with you. I don't know if i can commit to sponsor a child or family on my own; would anyone be interested in a co-sponsorship?

Lani in Virginia

[Kellycat]

I would be more than willing to help out with the blankets. If you PM me with your address I will send you two for the August trip. Also I haven't used it yet, but I do have a knitting machine which could come in handy with the fine yarn that was donated.

[dr-mom]

New Crochetville member here, I've been lurking for a while, joined a couple of days ago, and ... reading those websites just tore my heart out. Yes, you know poverty like this exists, but to have it exist here is unbearable. Sign me up for at least 2 afghans, plus whatever little things I can toss together in time to make the trip with you. I don't know if i can commit to sponsor a child or family on my own; would anyone be interested in a co-sponsorship?

Lani in Virginia

Maybe too there is someone at work, what you have to dois 5 times a y ear send a set of books and schhol supplies first day of school, than something at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter and the birthday. For some taking a baby is easier, and you can croceht outfits as they grow. there are over 500 children waiting, and winter coming so even just spreading the word would be wonderful

Pamela

[dr-mom]

I would be more than willing to help out with the blankets. If you PM me with your address I will send you two for the August trip. Also I haven't used it yet, but I do have a knitting machine which could come in handy with the fine yarn that was donated.

Kelly I can send you the yarn if you want to PM me your address and send the afghans to

Blankets for Pine Ridge
% Reinert
6922 East Fish Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369

I have decided to make two trips one in August and another before heavy snow in mid October!

[SassyThreads]

Hi all,

I was able to speak with Pamela today and am now a sponser. I was so torn when she explained to me about life on the Pine Ridge Reservation. If there is anyway you could sponser a child this is the place:heart

It is so cold in the winter :snow I am going to start crocheting shawls and blankets for the family.

Thank you so much pamela:hug for making us aware of the conditions at Pine Ridge.

GodBless You:manyheart

[Sam the Man!]

Are you excited? do we get to see photos? Does it work that way - come on tell all _ i bet you are going to put your crochet talent to good use. do you knit too? Sam

[Simone]

I was thinking if they don't have blankets they probably do not have toys either - I saw a really cute crochet pattern, for making one of those learning books, you know where you have one page that buttons one that ties and so on - tkae very little yarn and you can use up your scraps if anyone is intersted let me know and I will get the pattern to you - Simone

[SassyThreads]

Hey Sam I am so excited:yay :woo :yay I went and bought clothes for the little ones yesterday. Yes I will post pictures but I will have to get permission from the family first.


I promise to post them when I receive the pictures:yes

For now I will get started on the crochet projects for them:knit

[SassyThreads]

Simone I would love the pattern for the crocheted baby book:jumpyay

My email address is sassy335@aol.com

[kittencrochet]

I'll have a few things ready to go for August...coffee, beads, cloth, etc...probably not much crocheted. But I should have a mess of mittens, hats and scarves done for October. I've got a lot of WIP's that I want to get wrapped up first. I'm also going to take a trip to a blanket factory up north and see if I can get a discount on a bulk purchase. Plus I have a funny feeling my son will have outgrown his jackets and ski pants...both in good condition. I've also got something in the works for the child I sponsor...he will be 13 in April and we are going to try and get him a Pendleton blanket. :D I'm planning on making his mom and 3 sisters dance shawls and chokers for him, his father and his brother. That is if I can ever figure out how to make the chokers...I've only done 1!

Sassy...congrats on becoming a sponsor! You'll love it! It's such a rewarding experience. I started sponsoring b/c I wanted my son to learn how important it was to help someone who does not have as much as we do. He's always complaining we don't buy him this or that. He doesn't do that so much now that he has seen how bad others have it. My grandmother used to make me do chores around the house to earn money to send to Jerry's Kids. I used to get so mad. But it taught me a lot about charity and how important it is. This just hits a little closer to home and has taught my son so much already.

[rosa]

Ok Lynna nd Kittencat - tell us more about your new children - I know you can't tell names or anything confidential but how about ages and sex in case we have something we might like to shae with you as far as patterns or maybe even items we have made. Rosa

[dr-mom]

I have been asked about the yarn for the knitting machines as this is what it says inside the cone -

Noni Lee Yarns

Perfection

1/6 100% acrylic

Pro 21 china Sea

Lot 054387

Hope this helps someone

Pamela:2hug :welcome

[natalie058]

If I'm not mistaken, 1/6 means this is yarn about 3000ypp. If you worked with it doubled up it would be like a 2-ply light sport weight, and tripled it could be used as a regular worsted weight.

That might be of some help if you can't find a knitting machine to use it for.

[SassyThreads]

Hi Rosa, my children all live together in one house with no electricity. There are 12 people living together. :ohdear

Grandma and Grandpa take care of everyone. Right now Grandma is in the hospital.

The children are

Boy 2

Boy 2 1/2

Girl 2

Baby girl 4 months

[Ro]

Will try to come up with something for this before winter Pamela! Definitely something worth contributing to...I just love babies I can't bear the thought of any baby anywhere being cold with no bed and blanket, it makes me cry!!!:cry

hugs
Ro

[dr-mom]

Ro you are really a sweetheart! I know you have special projects ofyour own and to be willing to be involved with the Pine Ridge project is wonderful. I titled this keep our babies alive because it is just so horrible to live here in the US one of the leading countries in the world and know that babies and elders literally freeze to death each year - they need everything - hats, blankets, mittens, scarves, sweaters, doesn;t have to be just blankets what ever moves you - Pamela:cheer

[kittencrochet]

Rosa, I've been sponsoring a 12 year old boy since April. He lives with his parents, 3 sisters and a brother. They have problems with black mold in the house so with some of the kids being asthmatic, there are 2 rooms they can't go in. He's a very smart kid..honor roll student.:D Mom is in college and Dad is involved with a job search program. It's been such a rewarding experience!

[Cordelia]

Pamela...I tried emailing at this addy: spiritrisingsponsorship@comcast.net

And it was returned as a failure: This is an automatically generated Delivery Status Notification.Delivery to the following recipients failed. Sorry to be trouble! Is this not correct?Thanx

[dr-mom]

sorry I messed up it is Pamela_Spirit-Rising@comcast.netthey reassigned the emails by names! dah some days!

[Cordelia]

How does one become a sponsor? Thanx for any info!:)

[dr-mom]

really there is not a lot to do, you contact
spirit rising through myself or the director Jeri Baker. We send you out some informaiton about how the program works. It is very unique in that you work directly with the family, call them write them, send things, form is friendships. I like to speak with all sponsors in person and talk about cultural differences so that there are no misunderstanding, review the expectations of the program, the sponsor committment. Children available are all ages from newborn to age 18. Some sponsors request an older child that they can communicated with more directly though letter writing and so on, other was a baby or toddler so that can look forward to sponsoring for several years. The sponsoring family is asked as to what type of child and age they are intereesting in forming this relationship with.

The committment is to send a care package a minimum of five times a year, the child's birthday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter and the first day of school. Many sponsors find they send little things throughout the year. Some sponsors take on one child, some take a sibling group. Currently there are over 500 childrfen waiting, everytime I call to make a sponsor connection the reservation family tells me about another family in need.

My husband and I sponsor three children a set of twins and a b aby boy - we are having a blast, shopping watcing sales, great time now to hit Target and the like as the summer clothing is on clearance.

I hope I have been able to answer a few of your questsions Pamela

[Simone]

Hidden Away, in the Land of Plenty....



* Median income is $2,600 per year with 85% to 95% unemployment
* Infant mortality rate 300% higher than the U.S. national average
* Diabetes and Tuberculosis rates 800% higher than the U.S. national average
* Elderly die each winter from hypothermia (freezing)
* At least 60% of the homes are severely substandard, without
water, electricity, adequate insulation, and sewage systems
* School drop-out rate is 70%
* Recent reports state the average life expectancy is 45 years old
while others state that it is 48 years old for men and 52 years old for women.
With either set of figures, that's the shortest life expectancy for any community in the
Western Hemisphere outside Haiti, according to The Wall Street Journal.


And the list goes on and on....

Simone

[Simone]

> The Pine Ridge Oglala Lakota (Sioux) Indian Reservation sits in Bennett, Jackson, and Shannon Counties and is located in the southwest corner of South Dakota, fifty miles east of the Wyoming border.



> The 11,000-square mile (over 2 million acres) Oglala Lakota Pine Ridge Reservation is the second-largest Native American Reservation within the United States. It is roughly the size of the State of Connecticut.


> According to the 1998 Bureau of Indian Affairs Census, the Pine Ridge Reservation is home to approximately 40,000 persons, 35% of which are under the age of 16. Approximately half the residents of the Reservation are registered tribal members of the Oglala Lakota Nation.


> The population is steadily rising, despite the severe conditions on the Reservation, as more and more Oglala Lakota return home from far-away cities in order to live within their societal values, be with their families, and assist with the revitalization of their culture and their Nation.


> Recent reports point out that the median income on the Pine Ridge Reservation is approximately $2,600 per year.

> The unemployment rate vacillates from 85% to 95% on the Reservation.


> There is no industry, technology, or commercial infrastructure on the Reservation to provide employment.


> The nearest town of size (which provides some jobs for those few persons able to travel the distance) is Rapid City, South Dakota with approximately 57,000 residents. It is located approximately 120 miles from the Reservation. The nearest large city to Pine Ridge is Denver, Colorado located about 350 miles away.


> Some figures state that the life expectancy on the Reservation is 48 years old for men and 52 for women. Other reports state that the average life expectancy on the Reservation is 45 years old. With either set of figures, that's the shortest life expectancy for a community anywhere in the Western Hemisphere outside Haiti, according to The Wall Street Journal.


> Teenage suicide rate on the Pine Ridge Reservation is 150% higher than the U.S. national average for this age group.


> The infant mortality rate is the highest on this continent and is about 300% higher than the U.S. national average.


> More than half the Reservation's adults battle addiction and disease. Alcoholism, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and malnutrition are rampant.


> The rate of diabetes on the Reservation is reported to be 800% higher than the U.S. national average.


> Recent reports indicate that almost 50% of the adults on the Reservation over the age of 40 have diabetes.


> As a result of the high rate of diabetes on the Reservation, diabetic-related blindness, amputations, and kidney failure are common.


> The tuberculosis rate on the Pine Ridge Reservation is approximately 800% higher than the U.S. national average.


> Cervical cancer is 500% higher than the U.S. national average.


> Each winter, Reservation Elders are found dead from hypothermia (freezing).


> It is reported that at least 60% of the homes on the Pine Ridge Reservation are infested with Black Mold, Stachybotrys. This infestation causes an often-fatal condition with infants, children, elderly, those with damaged immune systems, and those with lung and pulmonary conditions at the highest risk. Exposure to this mold can cause hemorrhaging of the lungs and brain as well as cancer.


> Many Reservation residents live without health care due to vast travel distances involved in accessing that care. Additional factors include under-funded, under-staffed medical facilities and outdated or non-existent medical equipment. There is little hope for increased funding for Indian health care.


> School drop-out rate is over 70%.


> According to a Bureau of Indian Affairs report, the Pine Ridge Reservation schools are in the bottom 10% of school funding by U.S. Department of Education and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.


> Teacher turnover is 800% that of the U.S. national average


> The small Tribal Housing Authority homes on the Pine Ridge Reservation are so overcrowded and scarce that many homeless families often use tents or cars for shelter. Many families live in shacks, old trailers, or dilapidated mobile homes.


> There is a large homeless population on the Reservation, but most families never turn away a relative no matter how distant the blood relation. Consequently, many homes have large numbers of people living in them.


> There is an estimated average of 17 people living in each family home (a home which may only have two to three rooms). Some homes, built for 6 to 8 people, have up to 30 people living in them.


> 60% of Reservation families have no telephone.


> Over 33% of the Reservation homes lack basic water and sewage systems as well as electricity.


> Many residents must carry (often contaminated) water from the local rivers daily for their personal needs.


> 39% of the homes on the Pine Ridge Reservation have no electricity.


> 59% of the Reservation homes are substandard.


> It is reported that at least 60% of the homes on the Pine Ridge Reservation need to be burned to the ground and replaced with new housing due to infestation of the potentially-fatal Black Mold, Stachybotrys. There is no insurance or government program to assist families in replacing their homes.


> Some Reservation families are forced to sleep on dirt floors.


> Many Reservation homes lack adequate insulation. Even more homes lack central heating.


> Without basic insulation or central heating in their homes, many residents on the Pine Ridge Reservation use their ovens to heat their homes.


> Many Reservation homes lack stoves, refrigerators, beds, and/or basic furniture.


> Most Reservation families live in rural and often isolated areas.


> The largest town on the Reservation is the town of Pine Ridge which has a population of approximately 5,720 people and is the administrative center for the Reservation.


> There are few improved roads on the Reservation and many of the homes are inaccessible during times of heavy snow or rain.


> Weather is extreme on the Reservation. Severe winds are always a factor. Traditionally, summer temperatures reach well over 110*F and winters bring bitter cold with temperatures that can reach -50*F below zero or worse. Flooding, tornados, or wildfires are always a risk.


> Many of the wells and much of the water and land on the Reservation is contaminated with pesticides and other poisons from farming, mining, open dumps, and commercial and governmental mining operations outside the Reservation. A further source of contamination is buried ordnance and hazardous materials from closed U.S. military bombing ranges on the Reservation.


> The Pine Ridge Reservation still has no banks, motels, discount stores, or movie theaters. It has only one grocery store of any moderate size and it is located in the town of Pine Ridge on the Reservation.


> Several of the banks and lending institutions nearest to the Reservation were recently targeted for investigation of fraudulent or predatory lending practices, with the citizens of the Pine Ridge Reservation as their victims.


> There are no public libraries except one at the Oglala Lakota College.


> There is no public transportation available on the Reservation.


> Ownership of operable automobiles by residents of the Reservation is highly limited.


> Predominate form of travel for all ages on the Reservation is walking or hitchhiking.

[quirkyvirgo]

I have just spoken to Pamela (thanks so much for your help and all the work you do!) and will be sponsoring a teenage girl and 2 year old girl. I hope we can keep this thread up so we can keep up with everyone who is sponsoring. Thanks so much to everyone who has pointed out this great need. I am so glad I can help, even if it is in such a small way.

Tandi

[SassyThreads]

Tandi that is a great idea. This would be the perfect spot for those of us that are sponsoring the children on Pine Ridge to keep in touch with each other and help encourage each other.:hug


I just sent off a box of clothes and puzzels for my kids. I am going to call and try and talk with grandma or one of the moms tomorrow. I have 2 boys and 2 girls under 3:dance

[dr-mom]

I am wondering if we should start a new thread for the sponsorship - some how tying the name together with the sponsoring it might just get a few other people to notice and think about sponsoring? What do you think

[losingmymind2]

Pamela, a friend and I were talking about this. While we can't sponsor at this time, we want to do something, and she wants to involve her 7 year old daughter. They don't crochet (yet), but perhaps if we can get some things together and forward them to you or someone who knows where to send them (with postage money) you could see they get where needed.

Kathy

[dr-mom]

Yes I can either send them on - as I know a number of families personally or take them when I take the afghans and things in mid September. just send them to

Blankets for Pine Ridge
6922 East Fish Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Thank you so much for thinking of these kids and what a wonderful thing to teach your daughter

Pamela

[JenC]

Pamela -

Thank you for posting this thread. I spoke to Jeri yesterday and am now sponsoring a nine year old girl. I like the idea of a thread for sponsors to be able to communicate with each other. I think it would be good for those of us who are new at this.
Just my :2c ! Thanks again
_Jen

[dr-mom]

Jeri is the Vice President over all programs, and I work just specifically with sponsors but any volunteers can help with sponsoring - as we really need each and everyone of you - Pamela

[SoCalDonna]

I checked with Pamela about making some quilts for Pine Ridge (I'm a slow crocheter, but know I can do some quilts), so I'll be doing that, and I'll see if I can get some of my quilting friends to help. I know this is kind of off topic (since it's about quilting), but anything that helps out for the children and elders has to be a good thing!

By the way, thank you to those who posted the statistics about life at Pine Ridge--what an eye-opener!

If anyone is interested in quilting, I have a pattern suggestion--here's the link:

http://www.kayewood.com/onlinecat/6hr.html

It's called the Six-Hour Quilt by Kaye Wood, is quick and easy,and it's a great charity quilt. I've made it before, and it works up very easily. I think the six hour thing is kind of optimistic, unless you're making the very smallest version of the quilt and have a helper cutting your fabric, handing you things, wiping your brow, etc. The quilt comes out reversible, and it's quilted as you go along. It's also very sturdy, and should stand up to a lot of loving and washing. If you have quilting friends, it's a fun quilt to work on with others.

There are so many cute fabrics available for kids and adults, but I checked with Pamela about fabric themes because I don't want to offend. She had some suggestions on fabric, which I can pass along if you want to PM me, or PM me if you have any other questions about the quilting pattern.

Thanks to Pamela for this thread! :clap

[dr-mom]

What a great idea Donna - it is so appreciated and needed. I thought I posted this all ready do you think we should start our own Yahoo group or perhaps post a new thread here - something catchy to let people know about sponsoring? I think it should be started by someone other htan me as I have two going right now and a new face might add some excitement to the thread Pamela

[SoCalDonna]

Pamela:

I think a Sponsorship Forum would be a great idea, a place where Pine Ridge Sponsors can share their experiences and pictures. I'll go ahead and start the thread under the Crocheting for Charity category. Does that sound okay?

Donna L.

[HollyM]

I was thinking about how the fiber community could support the reservation, not just by giving items, but in a way that would help them support themselves.

Has anyone used/fondled Manos del Uruguay yarn?
http://www.kaleidoscopeyarns.com/manos-del-uruguay-kettle-dyed-wool-heavy-worsted-weight-yarn.html



This stuff is fabulous, and pricey. It’s handmade, co-op style by women in Uruguay. What about starting a program like that on the reservation?

. The fiber arts are on a huge upswing. How many of us have spent more on yarn to make a sweater than we could buy a finished sweater at the mall? This would be different than raising sheep and just selling the wool in bulk to the wool pool (very low $$ return) or trying to sell them as meat. This would need to be a complete process ending in a branded product. Selling a high quality yarn, even roving, would probably be more profitable than taking the next step and trying to sell finished garments.


Obviously this would be a huge undertaking, both in planning and initial investment, but it could go a long way to helping them become self sufficient. I’m just tossing thoughts I had out there; maybe those thoughts would get into the right hands.


Setting up as a co-op would be key. Pool resources of labor, space, $$ etc. Donations towards the project could be in the form of $$, grant writing, equipment, training and even animals.


The best type of sheep would have to be determined. Some breeds give you more bang for your buck. It would have to be a balance of quality & quantity of wool, keeping in mind the hardiness & ease of care of the animal itself. Alpaca could also be considered. Angora bunnies could be kept by individuals at their homes for additional income. Since Angora wool is best collected by hand brushing (rather than shearing) that is something that could allow older members to participate.


Cleaning, carding & dying would probably be best done in a central building, both for ease & consistency. Spinning could be done either at a central location or at home. Equipment would be a major investment, but Babe products are quite functional at a much lower cost. They even make electric spinners which would increase productivity.


The finished yarn could be skeined, labeled and shipped both to LYS and sold online through their own site, all giving more employment opportunities.


I have no idea where one starts to get something this big in motion....any thoughts????


Holly

[Nashville Crocheter]

Holly,
I think that is a fabulous idea! It would take lots of concentrated effort on the part of alot of people. Maybe when Pamela goes there in Aug. and Oct. she can talk it up and see if there is any interest among the people on the reservation and if someone there would be able to manage the progect.

I have written a few grants for the non-profit org. I work for. I don't know where to start looking for grants for something like this but I would be willing to help write some grant proposals if we can get some
requests for proposals (RFP).

I don't know what else I could help with since I am not anywhere close to the reservation, but if it can be done by mail and internet, I am willing to contribute.

Barbara

[dr-mom]

I would be glad to speak with people - we would need someone to do the actual training. I have printed your email - right now I am in California for my brother's wedding - but I will read it all through again when I get home at the end of the week thatnk you for caring so much - Pamela

[Amberfire3]

Hello,

I figured it was time to stop Lurking LOL.

I have a couple of afghans almost finished and will be sending them along.

Thanks
Mickie

[losingmymind2]

Has anyone used/fondled Manos del Uruguay yarn?
http://www.kaleidoscopeyarns.com/ma...eight-yarn.html



This stuff is fabulous, and pricey. It’s handmade, co-op style by women in Uruguay. What about starting a program like that on the reservation?

I fell in love with this when I got some for my swap partners...in fact, it's not sent to them yet because I keep visiting it and petting it in their boxes.

A co-op would be a wonderful idea,and I would support it as much as possible; but with the vast distances and limited transportation, could enough women get together to make it viable?

Kathy

[SoCalDonna]

Holly & Kathy:

That is such a great idea! With the Internet, they could really reach a large market!

[SassyThreads]

Donna are you going to start the yahoo group for Pine Ridge?:think

I am excited to start sharing:yay :yay

[SoCalDonna]

Hi, Lynn:

I was thinking maybe we should wait and see what Pamela wants to do, as far as having a Yahoo Group. I'm kind of new to the project, though am willing to help out if I can. I'm looking forward to her getting back later in the week so I can get hooked up with a couple of kids. It'll be fun to share and find out how everyone's children are doing! I was thinking that maybe having some Pine Ridge t-shirts or other items on Cafe Press might be a way to help out too, maybe even with drawings some of the children have made.

I'm technically challenged, but maybe someone could make a button for Pine Ridge Sponsorship??

By the way, thanks Lynn, for posting the link to
afghansetc4charity.com (http://www.afghansetc4charity.com/)
I'm looking forward to participating in that group.

[HollyM]

This is still ratteling around in my brain, so I'm glad you guys don't think it's totally off the wall :lol

It would be an enormous undertaking. To make a truly viable, profitable yarn line it would have to be looked at as any other business undertaking, not just a little cottage industry type thing. The main difference though, instead of some faceless corporation profiting, the money would go back into the reservation's community.

I live in NJ myself, and have never been to any reservation. If this does get off the ground, I would love to continue being involved, but it would have to be mostly from afar. I'm so glad Pamala is here, having been there herself and making some future trips her knowledge will be invaluable. I have no idea of the logistics of the reservation, so the first step is to see if it's even feasable and if there is any interest by the people there.

Here are some random thoughts I had, once the feasability hurdle is passed.

It would take a huge amount of money to get the project started and to maintain operations until it started turing a profit. I would imagine at a minimum, it would be in the $75k-100k range, but probably more depending on what buildings are/are not available and what equipement gets donated rather than purchased. That's where grantwriting and fundraising comes in. Look at all the celebrity knitters too! Get a few of them behind the idea, plus the fiber community in general. Not just crocheters, but the spinners, the weavers, the knitters.

I'm envisioning this set up in clusters to make the work acessable to as many people as possible. There would need to be one central headquarters type place for things like shipping and administration of the program, but the flocks can be spread out in several locations. They can be sheared & the fleece cleaned, carded & spun by the people closest to the flock (not just women either!)

I'm thinking dying of the yarn would be better done at one location for consistancy.

Part of the co-op operating costs could be for a few large trucks to travel to the clusters and collect yarn/fleece.

The cluster concept would also work as far as training. Animals and equipement can be obtained for just one or two clusters at first.
Volunteers can come in to train those people. As those workers become proficient, they can be the ones to train the next cluster.

I'm also thinking any yarn "seconds", ones not quite good enough for sale, could still be good enough to make into knitted/crocheted items for the people living there, so there would be no production waste.

this is really just the tip of the iceburg, probably further discussion would be better in email or the yahoo group being set up..but any ideas are welcome!!!!

holly

[leahraej]

I am new here to this forum. My name is Lorna, I am old enough to know better, have 3 kids who have given me 5 grandsons, so about 2 yrs ago I started sponsoring a little girl through Spirit Rising.Don't know if this is allowed but there are already several yahoo groups for Pine Ridge, one of them is for sponsors through Spirit Rising. It was started last year right before Christmas,by some that 2 or 3 people were all sharing the same family, to keep up with who is doing what. And Jeri Baker does give us updates about what is happening. They are working hard to get a Share Program going. If anyone wants to talk more about it I will be happy to discuss it with you privately.
Lorna

[kittencrochet]

I'm all for helping them to become self sufficient. However, let me flip this around. I make Native dance shawls. A plain shawl with a moderate amount of fringe I charge $45 for! And ones with ribbonwork and heavy fringe have gone as high as $125. However, people on the whole don't want to buy. My point is this...in order to upkeep a business financially is expensive. Now add in the cost of supplies, crafting time, marketing, etc. You have no choice but to mark things up...way up. The majority of people are not going to want to pay an arm and a leg regardless of wether or not it's Native made or where the money is going. If I had a choice, I for one would buy something made commercially priced within my budget.


There is a company called Southwest Indian Fund. They sell hadcrafted items made by tribes of the southwest. My mother gets their catalog. While the items are beautiful, they are way out of reach for most budgets.

On top of this, the majority would have to be taught. That takes time, energy and money. And that needs to be done prior to the business getting off the ground.

Over the years I've seen several ideas that were great, but ended up going under because the demand is just not there. For instance, several years ago there was a contract with a major sneaker company for beaded sneakers. I forget what Res was doing it...but I believe it was one of the Siox Res'. Anyhow, the sneakers just didn't sell. And they cost a fortune due to the time it took to make them. I bought a pair only because they were more comfortable to wear dancing than my mocs. There was little training needed because beading is common there. So they were able to cut cost there. However, it bombed and money was lost.

You need to make certain before hand that there is a demand for it. Just because the cause is good, does not guarantee that people will purchase it. Can it be produced cheap enough that the price for the finished product is affordable for the target market?

I'm not trying to knock the idea...I think it's a great one. But I want to make sure the downsides are addressed as well. It's a huge undertaking and expensive all around. Just my :2c

[SassyThreads]

Hi Donna,

I am so excited that our charity group is growing. I think it is wonderful that you quilt. :cheer I believe we only have around 3 quilters in our group so far.

I guess we better wait until Pamela get's back to see about the sponsorship group.

As the other lady posted, she said there is already a yahoo group for sponsors. So I guess we ought to check that out.

[dr-mom]

Hi I am back - I think as sponsoring families you have to decide what you would like to do - if you would like more personalized contact then I think it would be fine to set up a yahoo group. In my position as a volunteer I can not encourage you either way - but I do hear a lot of enthusiasm. I did check on the group all ready started and it is a closed group just for those families that all sposnor one particular large family - if you decide to start one you need to remember the rules of confidentiality and you may want to screen those who join, so that there would not be any problems with confidential information getting out - just some ramblings - Pamela

[SoCalDonna]

Hi, Pamela:

Glad you're back!

Did you have any thoughts on Holly's idea about a yarn co-op at Pine Ridge? I found a group on the Web, The Lakota Fund at:
www.lakotafund.org (http://www.lakotafund.org/)
Have you heard of them before? They sound like the kind of group that might sponsor or help finance something like this.

[dr-mom]

I have not too much along those lines today - we got in at 2:30 this morning and our foster duaghter came at 7:30 so am kind of dragging today - with all the joy of laundry and so on. I do know that I am not able to underatke it - with both the Sponsorship Program and The chain Gang my hands are full - if anyone else reading this would like to pursue these things it would be wonderful. I am just in the process of finishing up matching sweaters for the twin girls we spnsor, now to make one for the baby boy! It is such a joy to call after our care packages are received - makes my heart glad -

While that is all said and done on the sad side I wish I could get as many people intersted in this project as the blanket brigade for the soldiers I wish they would do both! But I know it has to be what pulls on the heart, and we still must deal with a world of prejudice when it comes to the Native population - as half chippewa I know that first hand. I will take any ideas and suggestions - Pamela

[dr-mom]

Your package arrived today and you will get a little note from the Gang as they have taken on Pine Ridge as a project. We are making some project toward our goal and I can not tell you how much it is all appreciated, even one hat may be that extra bit of warmth to keep an elder from catching pneumonia - thanks Pamela

[Sam the Man!]

I have been talking to Pamela and I know she is trying to fins a sponsor or sponsors for 4 children they are part of a household of 12 living with the grandma. 5 yr old girl, 4 yr old boy, 2 yr old boy and a new born baby not quite 2 months, help me spread the word through your grops. These kids have a wonderful grandma who is keeping the family together. I am all ready sponsoring or I would jump in there - I love babies, and a new born would be really fun to make things for - but oh dear so would the 5, 4, and 2 yr old - oh they are now a sibling group but are all the grandchildren of the elder, Sam

(Pamela hope it was all right to post this here as I know that no confidentail things were mentioned) oh to sponsor all you need to do is send a care package 5 times a year, birthday, first day of school, thanksgiving, christmas, and easter - that is your minimum obligation, I tend to send a little something each month, sometimes just a letter, and maybe toothbrushes for everyone, or some treats - etc. think about your stashes it would mean maybe making some hats, mittnes, scarves, maybe a sweater ot two, and some toys and you would easily have 5 care pacakages done!

Sam

[rosa]

I know Pamela started this looking for help with her blankets project - but it has grown into so much more. I too am sponsoring and it is the most blessed thing I have done. I have a school age girl - and just went out to Target and picked up 4 outfits for her for less than $20 they had all their summer things on sale up to 75% off - and the mom said it is really hot there over 100 so she is pretty set, threw in some undies and off it went in the mail. My relatives are all back in Colombia - so I don't have much family here besides my friends through crochet - but there are thousands of people on the crochet sites - I never thought of making things but yes a beautiful sweater for the first day of school, a matching hat and scarf and mittens for another package, I wnat to make some crocheted animals and dolls - wow tis is double the fun. I may need to look for a yahoo group that can help me with the dolls, and if it goes well Pamela could I make some extras for your trip to South Dakota. I figure if they need blankets they surely do not have toys! Rosa

[ellebee]

Dr Mom - This week I will be sending you a box of hats and a blanket that I've crocheted. What sad conditions there are Pine Ridge. Glad you are doing so much to help these people. :hug Laura

[Madamspinner]

This is for Pamela and others who are making warm things for the Rez.

For all intents & purposes; you need to figure that ALL laundry is done BY HAND, and in COLD water. That said; please keep in mind that warm items of clothing and blankets "can be and need to be " of wool or some wool content, at least; if you can get it.

Wool is warmer than any other fiber, even when it's wet.

Try to strive for patterns that aren't too "hole-y". For example: an afghan made from granny squares isn't going to be very warm when you're living in the equivalent of a barn" .

Try for a more solid fabric as you crochet. Use two strands of yarn if you can get away with it. Or use a smaller hook...

Those who will receive the items, will more then likely, be washing these things in cold water, by hand. BUT-on the other hand, they know how to hand-wash items with WOOL in them. A GOOD THING ! :) ( I am reminded of a wool sweater I knitted for my sister....:angry ) Now it fits her little dog !

I have made warm items for Pine Ridge for several years.....only I send them to the Billy Mills Youth Center. These are just a few things I've learned.

Other things they can use: soaps of all kinds, bed linens, socks, underwear ( summer & winter) , yarn, knitting needles & crochet hooks of their own ! , food staples, WOOD for stoves, just about ANYthing and EVERYthing.

When you hear "They have NOTHING"...it is NOT an eggsageration ( sp?) . They have NOTHING. And no way to get anything, and no money to get it. It's a vicious cycle.

I crochet baby things and things for the elders...hats, mittens, scarves, slippers, sweaters, afghans. In a baby layette, I'll add things, like 2 dozen cloth diapers, bars of Ivory for baby, boxes of hot baby cereal, powdered formula, baby bottles.

J. Baker, will also take garden seeds, tools, and canning equipment. At the end of this years canning season; ALL of my garden & canning things are being shipped to the REZ; due to my own health problems. Anybody want to take 2 pressure canners and about 500 canning jars up there ??? :)

Just a few FYI's. Go for "WARM" and you can't go wrong. Slippers made with two strands and an upper cuff are prized by the elders to keep feet warm in the cold of winter.

Madamspinner

[SassyThreads]

Thank you madamspinner for your information on what to make for Pine Ridge.:hug I am going to pass this on to my charity crochet group.

[SoCalDonna]

I'm excited to have just started a sponsorship of two little brothers, ages 3 and 2. I was able to do some shopping today for clothes and toys at Target, and had a blast, since I'm at the stage where my boys are grown but I don't have grandkids to buy for yet! This is a household of 12, 6 adults and 6 children. I wish I could sponsor all 6 children in the household, but just can't afford to. I believe this may be the household that Sam the Man mentioned earlier in this thread. The other children in the household are: a 1-year-old boy, a 4-year-old boy and his 5-year-old sister, and a 3-month-old girl. Since two of the six children are now sponsored, it sure would be great to get sponsors for the other four so they won't feel left out. Their grandmother, who is the head of the household, sounds like a special lady, although I keep missing her with my phone calls! I'm looking forward to talking with her and learning more about the needs in the household.

[dr-mom]

Hi this is Pamela and some of you are aware, and others perhaps not - that I grew up on the reservation, and yes it would be wonderful if afghans were made of wool, but if yours are not - please do not worry, everything is a help, and there are many individuals like myself that are alergic to wool, and need that afghan to be made of something else. I made my petition for blankets, but know that I am willing to take anything that you send me, I will be going home for my own pow wow and then will drive over to Pine Ridge the next day, I grew up on a reservation in the eastern part of South Dakota and live in Minnesota now. A number of people had mentioned that they would like to make things but wanted to know that they actually were received and given to those with the greatest needs, that is why I offered to go. Yes please if you can make you afghans as solid as possible, if you have made ones that are grannys not to worry they will be used as well. Perhpas when you are sending the afghans if you can afford it throw in some crayons, or similar things for the children, anything you can think of for the first day of school will certainly be needed now, such as pens and pencils, markers, backpacks, I don't remember when was the last time I saw a child with an actual backpack. Ok I have said enough, but if you would like to know any of my personal experinces just pm me. Thanks Pamela

[Sam the Man!]

would anyone be interested in starting a comfortghan for Pine Ridge? I don't know if we would have a response but sure would be fun. I can make the squares but am not good at putting them together, anyone think this might be a good idea. I could talk with Pamela and see if there is a special child that might be in need, and request for that child? Sam

[Simone]

Sam I think it is a good idea. I too am not good at the joining part, but I know making the square with a child in mind would sure motivate me I wonder if Pamela would be able to get a photo? Or Pamela if it is a problem in your role to ask I don't mind at all - worst that can happen is I am told no
others let me know your thoughts.

I wonder if somehow we should combine this forum and the sponsorship forum under a new name and ask everyone to post there, so we don't miss anyone? just wondering

Simone

[grannytme]

if you want to donate squares to be made into afghans for the pine ridge reservation you can send them to...... pam wingard
po box 80597
baton rouge, la. 70898-0597
have been doing these for her and she takes any size.
If you go to the friends of pine ridge indian resv. site it will explain it all to you. hope everyone who can will do at least one!

[dr-mom]

Ellebe your box is here it is wonderful - thank you so much I will be taking it the second weekend in O ctober - and Sassy Threads from
California is talking about meeting me there and bring a truck load from you guys in the west - she's got to clear it with family first - this is so exciting - Pamela

[dr-mom]

YOur two afghans arrived that you made with the knitting machine yarn they are so beautiful. I feel so blessed to be part of this wonderful group, and the families will be so much better off this year. the deadline for the October trip is October 10. I must begin packing on that day, and please pray that we will have a full cargo van - Pamela

[Sam the Man!]

I sure wish I knew how to use a knitting machine or a loom for that matter - it seems I never have the time to sit down and learn - or perhaps it is just that I am a little scared to try something new - seems that if i just sit down and crochet it will be done much faster. How is it going do you have a lot of supplies? what is your deadline for needing everything in? sam

[SassyThreads]

Hey all,

Pamela and I wanted to let you all know that we have the charity group ready to go.

We are calling it Crafting For A Cause in yahoo groups. We have decided to include all crafters that would like to help. Crocheters, knitters, quilters, sewers, beaders, woodworking, leather work etc...

To start off we will be including Pine Ridge Reservation, Kids going through cancer treatments at UC Davis in CA

Pamela's Chaing gang and other special needs children.

We also will support a different chairity a month. We are on the ground floor right now so come along and join us.

[dr-mom]

My van is now full - I have an address where you can send supplies directly for Pine Ridge. Please Whenever yous send something for Pine ridge Let me know - so that I can verify that it was received. thank you Pamela

Send all supplies to:

The United Sioux Tribes of South Dakota


103-A New York ST


Rapid City SD 57709


Thank you so much - Pamela

[losingmymind2]

Pamela, the first box went out today UPS, and if you want the tracking number let me know. I have some more stuff (pencils, beginner tablets, crayons, etc) I'll get out later this week.

Kathy

[dr-mom]

Kathy you belong to the crafting for a cause right? Barbara is going to keep track of all of that. Did you happen to enclose a disposable camera - hoping we can get some pictures. Let barbara know what you sent and record it in the data base - thank you so much - Pamela

[SassyThreads]

Hi Sam,
Pamela and I are waiting for you to come join our new group. You would be the only guy so you would get spoiled :wink

[dr-mom]

Hey Folks - I am still getting a lot of supplies at my house which is great I want every one of them - but the people from the reservation are telling me that they could use the things earlier than mid-October which is my trip now - so if you can please send them right to Wayne at the United Sioux Tribes

Send all supplies to:

The United Sioux Tribes of South Dakota


103-A New York ST


Rapid City SD 57709



Please mark all box from Crafting For A Cause - so he will know it came from us crocheters. Pamela

[dr-mom]

Just a few minutes ago we were the most popular news story on Yahoo. Oh My GOSH I can't believe this.

http://tinyurl.com/awhrs (http://tinyurl.com/awhrs)

I know I sent this announcement to some of you earlier today. But we need your help. Please follow the link below and rate the story (5 stars would be great) and if you can please email the story from yahoo (link at the bottom of the page) to at least one person and ask them to do the same.

Our little grass roots PR is working. The gang has already started to get donations not to mention the exposure for our little company.

Love and Blessings, Pamela -- \

http://tinyurl.com/awhrs (http://tinyurl.com/awhrs)