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Bring back the Buffalo

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Hi, I am Teresa Saulen and I am a volunteer with the non-profit organization One Spirit. We at One Spirit help the Lakota meet their basic needs and provide a culturally rich life for their youth. Our programs promote an intercultural relationship that recognizes that we are all related and that American Indians are an equal and valued part of our society. The goal of all programs is to reduce or eliminate hunger, to replace the high drop out and suicide rates among youth with an enthusiasm for learning and a pride in their Lakota heritage, and to provide protection from the winter cold that can drop to 40 below zero. 

OBJECTIVE: The objective is that our new Lakota Meat House will be a fully functional USDA  approved meat processing facility with the hope of offering a Lakota-branded meat on the market.

If the Meat House passes inspection, the Lakota will become one of the only tribes in the area to have a USDA-approved processing facility. Revenue generated from the business will initially be reinvested in the facility to increase its size. If the meat business generates significant profits, the money will be put into a trust for the Lakota tribe members.

SAVINGS/IMPACT: This project would result in significant cost savings to the tribe and local people. The 30-40K residents will benefit as prime buffalo meat—as opposed to beef—becomes easier to obtain.  Buffalo would be cared for and shown a great degree of respect at life’s end...the entire process is sacred.  Local ranchers/game hunters will also use the facility, resulting in 100 animals processed per yr.  2-5 jobs (part-to-full-time) would be created.  Scarce money would circulate on the reservation.  This project would likely return the investment in 2-3 years.   

PROJECT ITEMS REQUIRED

$10,000 -Interior (washable plastic paneling and insulation)

$5,000     -Electrical system and installation (lights, wire, labor)

$13,000-  Bldg cooling system and walk-in coolers

Much has already been accomplished on the building since the project began! The exterior is completed, water lines have been installed and all of the concrete floors have been poured. There is still work to be done to be able to pass a full USDA inspection.

We are grateful for your kindness and support of this Lakota Food Sovereignty Project!

Organizer and beneficiary

Teresa Saulen
Organizer
Pine Ridge, SD
Jeri Baker
Beneficiary

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