Rapid City Shelter Receives $20,000 National Grant

Working Against Violence Inc. secured funding to support survivors of domestic violence in South Dakota.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Rapid City Shelter Receives $20,000 National Grant

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Should local governments provide more consistent funding to ensure domestic violence shelters remain operational?

The Mary Kay Ash Foundation awarded a $20,000 grant to Rapid City's Working Against Violence Inc. (WAVI) to bolster local support services. This contribution is part of $1 million distributed across 51 shelters nationwide during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Why it matters

The grant supports essential services for survivors, including a 24-hour crisis line and legal advocacy, amid high rates of partner violence in the state. Such funding helps sustain resources that are vital for individuals seeking immediate safety.

WAVI, which has operated since 1978, provided over 13,000 nights of emergency shelter in 2025. The organization uses these funds to maintain operations for survivors in the Rapid City area.

The players

Working Against Violence Inc.

This organization has provided crisis support and emergency shelter services in the Rapid City area since 1978.

Mary Kay Ash Foundation

This foundation distributes annual grants to shelters across the United States to assist survivors of domestic violence.

The details

Working Against Violence Inc. provides comprehensive support, including safety planning and legal advocacy, for victims of domestic abuse. The grant follows reports indicating that 28% of South Dakota women and 23% of men face intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.

1978: WAVI began providing emergency shelter and support services.
2020: Half of South Dakota intimate partner homicides involved guns.
2025: Survivors spent over 13,000 nights in WAVI shelter.
October 2026: WAVI received a $20,000 national grant.

Legal Context

The funding highlights the ongoing need for resources during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This support addresses regional safety concerns, such as the 50% of 2020 South Dakota intimate partner homicides that involved a firearm.

Residents in Rapid City benefit from the continued availability of the organization's 24-hour crisis line and emergency shelter. These services remain a primary resource for local safety planning and legal advocacy.

The takeaway

Access to local crisis centers remains a critical lifeline for those facing physical or sexual violence. Survivors can utilize these facilities for immediate safety planning and long-term support services.