WAGNER, S.D.—There was some relief when EBT benefits were distributed, but for many families, stretching those dollars is the new challenge.
Take the Bair family, for example. Living in a rural area near Wagner comes with high grocery prices. “In town, a gallon of oil costs $7 or $8, but here we pay $15 or $16,” Francis Zephier-Bair shared. This makes budgeting even tougher.
Their living situation is unique. With no access to wells, they pay $60 a month to shower at a gym, while relying on an outhouse at home. Jobs are scarce, especially for older folks. “There are no jobs, no positions,” said Francis.
The family’s SNAP benefits took a hit recently. They went from $700 to just $117. “We got cut from $700 to $300 to $117,” Francis explained. Other sources of help came from their tribe and local grocers, which provided some needed relief. For example, they received $200 from the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and $100 from Buche’s through the Yankton Sioux Tribe.
Much of this assistance helps their college-age kids. “Our belief is that our children eat first,” Rob Bair said, adding that they often send over $300 worth of food to their kids, who have to fend for themselves several days a week.
While they manage with what they have, Rob is mindful of the sacrifices needed. Their family often relies on hunting for venison, but fresh produce remains a luxury. “I guarantee we’ll go without,” he said.
The Department of Social Services recently shared that updates on November benefits will come soon, as they await guidance from the federal government. It’s a tough wait for many families in South Dakota who are trying to make every dollar count.
A 2022 survey found that more than one in ten U.S. families faced food insecurity, a statistic highlighted by organizations like Feeding America. As families like the Bairs navigate financial strain, support from community groups and local tribes has become essential lifelines.
In times like these, every bit of help matters, and families are finding creative ways to cope, whether through bartering with neighbors or getting fresh produce from local farmers’ markets when possible. The Bair family’s story reflects the resilience many rural families show as they support one another in the face of economic hardship.
For further insights into food security issues, check out reports by the USDA and Feeding America.
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