With area temperatures forecasted to drop to dangerous levels, area public safety agencies and
human service providers are making accommodations to protect Rapid City’s vulnerable houseless population.
“With forecasted temperatures set to drop below zero degrees, our officers will be conducting regular patrols of
the city’s bike path and other locations where the city’s houseless population tend to congregate,” says Assistant
Chief of Police Scott Sitts. With temperatures this low, it’s imperative that we do what we can to ensure everyone
has a warm place to be.”
Rapid City is home to many resources that our officers can use to ensure everyone in need has a safe place to stay
during dangerous weather. The Pennington County Care Campus at 321 Kansas City Street provides services for
those under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“When the weather is dangerously cold, we urge people to make lodging plans in advance,” says Chief Deputy
Willie Whelchel. “The Care Campus Detox/Safe Solutions is a round-the-clock resource for intoxicated individuals
no matter the weather. The goal is to provide resources for the intoxicated and those struggling with substance
abuse to seek treatment and get reconnected with family and friends.”
The Cornerstone Rescue Mission at 30 Main Street has also adjusted their operations to provide safety from the
cold weather in the form of a ‘warming center.’
“Cornerstone Rescue Mission will continue to be open 24/7 for those needing respite,” says Lysa Allison, Executive
Director of the Cornerstone Rescue Mission. “We will act as a warming center during the day with coffee and
snacks, and our soup kitchen will be open three meals a day. Our beds are full, but anyone sober and needing
warmth and shelter will be welcome to stay on a mat or a cot. If you know of anyone in need, male or female,
please direct them to 30 Main Street.”
The public is encouraged to contact local law enforcement ay 605-394-4131, should they encounter anyone who
appears to be struggling in the impending cold weather.
“Despite these many proactive services during the cold weather, our officers and deputies cannot be everywhere
all at once,” says Assistant Chief Sitts. “We lean on the public to help direct us to those who need assistance.
Thanks to the many resources in our community that assist the houseless population, we have a variety of options
we can utilize to ensure everyone in need has warm shelter during the cold.”
