Pine Ridge opens first full-service domestic violence shelter since 2009

A new domestic violence shelter opened Feb. 23 on the Pine Ridge Reservation in Porcupine, South Dakota, marking the first full-service shelter on the reservation since 2009, according to reporting by ICT.

The shelter is operated by the nonprofit Where All Women Are Honored and was founded by Norma Rendon, Oglala Lakota. Rendon said victims previously had to travel more than 90 miles to Rapid City or seek space at shelters on the Rosebud Reservation. The five-bedroom facility can house up to five families and provides emergency space if it reaches capacity. Rendon said the shelter aims to provide safety and support for people leaving abusive relationships. According to the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, there are 55 Indigenous-focused domestic violence shelters nationwide. Rendon said the shelter is open to anyone in need, regardless of gender or whether they are Native.