The Good Shepherd Center continues to help the homeless and those in need.
Located downtown Sioux Falls, the Good Shepherd Center is an ecumenical ministry.
“We provide a safe and caring environment where people are treated with respect and dignity,” said Maria Ray, executive director of the Good Shepherd Center. “Our goal is to provide basic services and to help these individuals become self-sufficient.”
The Good Shepherd Center provides free laundry and shower facilities and supplies. It is funded through individual donations and people in the community volunteering their time.
Cindy Hayes has been a volunteer at the Good Shepherd for the last six years. “Cindy comes in four days a week and spends a couple hours talking with the female guests and referring them to appropriate agencies,” said Ray.
Hayes is also in charge of crafts. “She comes up with a project for the women and then makes sure there are supplies. Cindy answers the phones, takes messages for the guests and helps make the guests feel welcome,” Ray said.
Hayes is also a member of the Black Sheep, a group made up of community members that raise funds and donations for the center.
The Black Sheep also give of their time staffing various information booths to help promote the center.
“If it weren’t for volunteers like Cindy, the Good Shepherd staff would have to put in a lot more hours, and be able to be in more than one place at a time,” explained Ray.
“With the holiday season fast approaching, we are looking for donations of phone cards so our guests can call their loved ones to wish them happy holidays,” said Ray.
Financial donations may be sent to Good Shepherd Center 300 N. Main Sioux Falls, SD 57104 or call Maria at (605) 332-3176.