A new initiative in Central South Dakota is providing free hot meals to residents in Lower Brule and Fort Thompson through a partnership between Team Buche Cares, Rethink Food, and Al’s Oasis. Over the next three weeks, warm meals will be delivered on specific days to community centers in both towns, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. This effort aims to support food security in rural and tribal communities during the holiday season.

Team Buche Cares founder RF Buche emphasized the organization’s commitment to serving local families by bringing nourishing meals directly to those in need. Rethink Food’s Culinary Director Ken Baker highlighted the importance of connecting excess food with communities in culturally meaningful and sustainable ways. This collaboration reflects a shared goal of addressing hunger while supporting South Dakota’s local populations.