Through the South Dakota Department of Social Services, there are two assistance programs available that provide financial aid to low-income South Dakota households.

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Low Income Energy Assistance

The energy assistance program will help pay for your heating costs. Keep in mind, funds from the energy assistance may not cover your entire monthly heating bill. If you qualify, the payment will be made directly to your energy supplier. 

Weatherization Assistance

The weatherization assistance program is designed to help low-income South Dakota households make their homes more energy-efficient. With this program, funds are limited, so you may be placed on a waiting list. Priority is given to the elderly and handicapped individuals and to families with small children. 

Other Resources for Utility Assistance includes:

  • Lawrence County Assistance Program - (605) 578-1941

  • Meade County Auditor - (605) 347-2360

  • The Salvation Army Northern Hills - (605) 722-4321

  • Society of St. Vincent de Paul - Spearfish/Belle Fourche: (605) 269-0676 Sturgis/Newell: (605) 519-8583 Piedmont: (605) 389-6739

  • Church Response Serving Northern Hills - (605) 342-5360

Business Assistance during COVID-19: The recent CARES Act established several new temporary programs for individuals and businesses in the wake of the ongoing public health crisis.

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Paycheck Protection Program

The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their employees on the payroll. Through this program, the Small Business Administration will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities.

Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance

This advance will provide up to $10,000 of economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. Funds will be made available following a successful application. This loan advance will not have to be repaid.

Express Bridge Loans

These loans can provide up to $25,000 to help support to small businesses quickly overcome any temporary loss of revenue. 

Small businesses impacted by coronavirus-related issues between February 15 and June 30, 2020 may apply for loans, which will remain available through the end of June. 

 

South Dakota Helpline

This free resource provides confidential information and support, whether financial, family, health or disaster related.

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