Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in South Dakota

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• Emergency – call now: 911. If you cannot speak safely, use Text-to-911 where available. Note that text is not fully active in Todd County; try 911 voice if texting fails. (dps.sd.gov)
• South Dakota statewide domestic violence hotline: 1-800-430-7233 (SAFE). (sdnafvsa.com)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline (24/7): 1-800-799-7233, text START to 88788, or use live chat. (thehotline.org)
• Helpline Center 211 (statewide referrals and crisis support): dial 211, text your ZIP code to 898211, or email help@helplinecenter.org. (helplinecenter.org)
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: dial 988 (answered in South Dakota by the Helpline Center). (sdsuicideprevention.org)

Statewide Emergency Contacts at a Glance

Sources: SD Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault, Helpline Center 211, SD Dept. of Public Safety – Victims’ Services, SD Attorney General – SAVIN. (sdnafvsa.com, helplinecenter.org, dps.sd.gov, dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Your Immediate Safety

Do this first: get to a safe place and contact an advocate or law enforcement. If you cannot speak safely, use Text-to-911; if that fails, place a short voice call and leave the line open. (dps.sd.gov)

• Digital safety: use a safe device and private browsing; the national hotline site has a quick “leave” button and safety tips. (thehotline.org)
• Local advocates can safety-plan with you now: contact your nearest shelter or the Helpline Center 211 to be connected within your county. (helplinecenter.org)
• If you worry about being found at the polls: South Dakota’s “Secure Active” voter designation hides your address if you have an active protection order or live in a shelter, valid for five years. Apply with the Secretary of State. (sdsos.gov)

Find Safe Shelter and Local Help

Start with a 24/7 contact that can place you tonight. Advocates can arrange transport, protection order help, and children’s needs.

Sources: program pages linked above. (chssd.org, beaconcentersd.com, safeharborsd.org, artemishouse.org, sturgisciss.org, yanktondomesticviolencecenter.com, wbcws.org, sdnafvsa.com)

Reality check: bed space can be tight during weather events and holidays. Ask the first advocate to warm-transfer you to a neighboring program if they’re full. Use 211 to widen the search quickly. (helplinecenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: if shelters are full, ask about hotel vouchers, safe parking, or “transitional housing” partners; ask to be added to any waitlist and request daily callback checks. If you need food while you wait, see the Feeding South Dakota mobile distributions and map. (feedingsouthdakota.org)

Protection Orders in South Dakota

Start here: use the Unified Judicial System’s free “Guide & File” to fill out domestic abuse protection order forms, then file at your county clerk of courts. Forms are free and filing costs are waived. For help, call your local shelter or the UJS Self‑Help Center. (ujs.sd.gov, ujslawhelp.sd.gov, chssd.org)

Protection Order Quick Facts

How to file today

• Use online Guide & File: print the packet (UJS‑090 series + UJS‑091A). If printing is unsafe, ask a shelter or library to help. (ujslawhelp.sd.gov)
• File at the clerk of courts: ask for the earliest available judge review.
• Ask for immediate safety terms: no-contact, residence exclusion, custody/visitation terms, firearms surrender consistent with state and federal law, and assistance retrieving personal items.
• Attend the hearing: bring any photos, texts, witnesses, and police reports. If you cannot attend due to safety or childcare, call the clerk and your advocate immediately to request a continuance.

What to do if this doesn’t work: if the judge denies your temporary order, you can still pursue the full hearing; ask an advocate to help you update evidence. If service on the respondent is delayed, ask the clerk to extend the temporary order until the rescheduled hearing date as allowed by law. (law.justia.com)

Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC)

Start here: apply for South Dakota Crime Victims’ Compensation to help with out‑of‑pocket costs from the assault, up to $15,000. There is no income test. Call 605-773-6317. (sdnafvsa.com)

• Covered expenses include: medical and dental care, mental health counseling, lost wages/support, funeral costs, mileage, eyeglasses, prosthetics, scene cleanup, and more. (sdnafvsa.com)
• How to apply: shelters and the UJS Self‑Help pages can connect you; documentation from healthcare providers and police reports help, but advocates can advise on alternatives if you did not report immediately. (ujs.sd.gov)
• Timeline: eligibility is reviewed after you submit an application and verification; keep receipts. If you get bills, tell providers you’ve applied and give them your claim number. (sdnafvsa.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your advocate about appeal options and emergency charity funds. You can also request victim notification and safety updates from SAVIN at 1-844-299-4608. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Financial Stability While You Get Safe

Domestic violence often includes financial control. These programs can help bridge the gap while you rebuild.

SNAP food benefits

• Maximum monthly benefit (Oct 2024–Sept 2025): household of 1 $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975, 5 $1,158\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$1,390. (fns.usda.gov, everycrsreport.com)
• Gross income limit (130% of poverty) used by South Dakota (FY2025): household of 1 $1,632/mo\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$2,215/mo, 3 $2,798/mo\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$3,380/mo; add $583 per extra person. Apply online via the state portal. (dss.sd.gov)
• Expedited issuance: if your situation meets emergency criteria, you may receive benefits in about 7 days; standard processing can take up to 30 days. Ask the worker to screen you for expedited service. (benefitscheckup.org)
• Apply online: SD DSS SNAP application portal. (dss.sd.gov)
• EBT support and card security: for lost cards or suspected fraud, call 800-604-5099 or use the ebtEDGE app to freeze the card. (dss.sd.gov)

SNAP quick table

Sources: USDA SNAP FY2025 COLA, SD DSS SNAP. (fns.usda.gov, dss.sd.gov)

Plan B: while your case is pending, get food through Feeding South Dakota’s Mobile Food Distribution. No ID required; proxy pick‑up allowed. (feedingsouthdakota.org)

TANF cash assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

• Monthly payment standard (parent in home): varies by living arrangement. For an “independent” household: size 1 $512\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$627, 3 $701\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$775, 5 $848\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$922. Shared housing has lower standards (e.g., size 3 $507). (dss.sd.gov)
• Work rules: generally 30 hours/week (or 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under six). Talk with your worker about “good cause” and domestic violence waivers. (dss.sd.gov)
• Apply/ask questions: call your local DSS office (see “Find Your Local Office” with direct numbers below) or apply at a DSS office. (dss.sd.gov)

Plan B: if you’re fleeing and need immediate help with fuel, diapers, or motel nights, ask your shelter about short‑term assistance funded through VOCA/OVW grants or local churches. (justice.gov)

Child Care Assistance

• Income ceiling (effective March 1, 2025): up to 209% FPL by household size; examples: size 2 $3,685/mo\ast \ast ,3\ast \ast$4,642/mo, 4 $5,599/mo\ast \ast ,5\ast \ast$6,558/mo. Copay varies by income. Call 800-227-3020. (dss.sd.gov)

Child care eligibility snapshot

Source: SD DSS Child Care Assistance – Am I Eligible. (dss.sd.gov)

Plan B: ask your shelter advocate about on‑site childcare, crisis nursery options, or sliding‑fee care at local nonprofits while your application is processed.

WIC for moms and kids under 5

• Income limit (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026): 185% FPL; e.g., family of 4 under $59,478/year qualifies. Apply at sd.gov/wic or call 1-800-738-2301. (doh.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)
• Monthly fruit and vegetable benefits (FY2025): children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)

Plan B: if an appointment is weeks out, ask the clinic for cancellations, or call 211 to find a nearby site with earlier openings. (helplinecenter.org)

Energy help – LIHEAP

• Benefit range (FY2025): heating assistance minimum $668\ast \ast ,maximum\ast \ast$2,400; crisis assistance up to $2,400. Income limits depend on household size and fuel type. To check status or apply, call 800-233-8503. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Processing time: applications are generally processed within 60 days; call to check status. (dss.sd.gov)

Plan B: if you have a shut‑off notice, tell LIHEAP you have a crisis; ask your shelter for a warm handoff to your utility’s hardship program. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Housing and Staying Housed

Start here: if you’re in HUD‑assisted housing or hold a voucher, you have federal protections under VAWA: you cannot be evicted or lose assistance because of abuse, and you can request an emergency transfer. Ask your landlord/PHAs for forms HUD‑5380/5382/5383. (hud.gov)

• Emergency transfer standard: you can request a move if you reasonably fear harm or experienced sexual assault at your unit within 90 days; your provider must keep your new location confidential. (womenslaw.org)
• Coordinated Entry for homelessness: South Dakota Housing for the Homeless Consortium uses Coordinated Entry to match households to rapid rehousing and related programs; if no physical access point, call 1-800-664-1349 to be assessed. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your advocate to escalate with your PHA supervisor and cite VAWA; if denied, contact HUD FHEO or legal aid for help enforcing VAWA. (hud.gov)

Legal Help and Court Support

• UJS Self‑Help Center: voicemail line 855-784-0004; forms and instructions online. (ujslawhelp.sd.gov)
• East River Legal Services (civil legal aid in eastern SD): 605-336-9230 or 1-800-952-3015; protection orders, family law, housing. (erlservices.org)
• Dakota Plains Legal Services (statewide with tribal emphasis): see office list; central intake 605-301-8060, Rapid City 605-342-7171, Eagle Butte 605-964-2175. (dpls.org)
• State Bar Lawyer Referral Service: 800-952-2333 or use the “Find a Lawyer” tool to locate private counsel; ask for a consult. (findalawyerinsd.com)
• Victim notifications and rights: enroll in SAVIN (1-844-299-4608) and review Marsy’s Law rights via the Attorney General. (atg.sd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call another legal aid office or ask your shelter about pro bono clinics; if you’re west of the Missouri River, ask WAVI about civil legal referrals. (sdnafvsa.com)

Work, Income, and Job Separation Because of Abuse

• Unemployment “good cause” due to domestic abuse: South Dakota law allows benefits if leaving work was necessary to protect yourself, with conditions such as reporting to law enforcement within 48 hours of an occurrence and separating from the abuser. See SDCL 61‑6‑9.1. (law.justia.com)
• FMLA for medical/recovery needs: if you’re eligible with your employer, you may use federal Family and Medical Leave to attend counseling or medical care related to the abuse. Check with HR and a legal advocate.

What to do if this doesn’t work: appeal unemployment denials and ask a legal aid attorney to help you document safety‑related reasons and police reports where available. (law.justia.com)

Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask for advocates trained in LGBTQ+ family dynamics; ERLS lists LGBTQIA+ priority populations. The National DV Hotline provides LGBTQ‑affirming support by phone, chat, or text. (erlservices.org, thehotline.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: shelters can arrange accessible rooms and ASL interpreters; the Deaf Hotline offers videophone 855-812-1001 via the National Hotline site. (thehotline.org)
• Veteran single mothers: ask your VA social worker to coordinate with local shelters; VAWA and CVC benefits still apply regardless of veteran status. Use SAVIN for offender notifications if a criminal case proceeds. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: you may qualify for immigration protections such as a U visa or VAWA self‑petition; consult a qualified immigration attorney. See DHS overview for U‑visa basics and certification requirements. (dhs.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: for Rosebud, contact White Buffalo Calf Women’s Society (605-856-2317); for Sisseton‑Wahpeton Oyate, contact the Tribal DV/SA program (staff phone numbers available). StrongHearts Native Helpline is also available at 1-844-762-8483. (wbcws.org, swo-nsn.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: ask your advocate about rural outreach; the SD Network coordinates rural services and can arrange transportation or mobile advocacy. (sdnafvsa.com)
• Single fathers: South Dakota programs serve all survivors. If you are a father seeking safety, contact the same hotlines and shelters listed above.
• Language access: ask for an interpreter; the National DV Hotline and 988 both provide multi‑language support. (thehotline.org, sdsuicideprevention.org)

Resources by Region

• East River: Children’s Home Shelter for Family Safety (605-338-4880), The Compass Center (605-339-0116), River City DVC (605-665-1448), East River Legal Services (605-336-9230). (chssd.org, thecompasscenter.org, yanktondomesticviolencecenter.com, erlservices.org)
• West River: WAVI (605-341-4808), Artemis House (605-642-7825), CISS Sturgis (605-347-0050), Dakota Plains Legal Services (Rapid City 605-342-7171). (wavi.org, artemishouse.org, domesticshelters.org, dpls.org)
• Statewide/All counties: SD Network hotline 1-800-430-7233, Helpline Center 211, Coordinated Entry 1-800-664-1349. (sdnafvsa.com, helplinecenter.org, dakotaathome.sd.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist

• Identification and safety: driver’s license or ID (if safe), children’s birth certificates, Social Security numbers if available.
• Documentation of abuse (if you have it): police reports, medical visit notes, photos, threatening messages.
• Proof of income and expenses: recent pay stubs, benefit award letters, rent/utility bills.
• Program‑specific items: for SNAP—proof of residency and identity; for TANF—child ages and housing arrangement; for WIC—proof of pregnancy or child age; for LIHEAP—three months of household income and a recent utility bill. (dss.sd.gov, doh.sd.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting to apply because you don’t have “perfect” proof; many programs accept sworn statements and advocate verification.
• Skipping the hearing on your protection order; if you cannot attend, request a continuance and ask your advocate to notify the court. (casetext.com)
• Not telling agencies you’re a victim of abuse; protections under VAWA and program rules can prevent penalties and help you transfer or keep benefits. (hud.gov)
• Assuming you won’t qualify for SNAP/WIC/Child Care because of income; the limits are higher than many think, and expedited options exist. (dss.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov)

Real‑World Examples

• Example – fast protection and shelter: A mom with two kids called 605-338-4880 at 10 pm, safety‑planned with Children’s Home Shelter, and completed protection order forms there the next morning using UJS “Guide & File.” Her temporary order was granted that day; the hearing was set within 30 days. (chssd.org, ujslawhelp.sd.gov, casetext.com)
• Example – bridging food and heat: After relocating to a relative’s home, a survivor applied for SNAP with expedited screening, used a Feeding South Dakota distribution that week, and submitted LIHEAP documents the same day. Her LIHEAP decision arrived within the 60‑day window. (dss.sd.gov, feedingsouthdakota.org)

Frequently Asked Questions (South Dakota‑specific)

• Are protection orders really free in South Dakota: Yes—there is no fee to file a temporary or final order, and no service fee. (womenslaw.org)
• How long does a final protection order last: Up to five years (the judge may set a shorter term). (womenslaw.org)
• How fast can I get a temporary order: Same‑day in many cases—an ex parte order can be issued and is effective up to 30 days until the hearing. (law.justia.com)
• Can I include my children on the order: Yes—ask the court to include child protections and temporary custody/visitation provisions as needed; an advocate can help you prepare.
• Is text‑to‑911 available everywhere: It’s available statewide but not fully active in Todd County; attempt a voice call if texting fails. (dps.sd.gov)
• How much SNAP could I get for a family of 3: The FY2025 maximum is $768/month; your actual amount depends on countable income and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
• What are the TANF amounts for a family of 3: Up to $701\ast \ast (independenthousing)or\ast \ast$507 (shared). Requirements include work participation unless you qualify for an exemption. (dss.sd.gov)
• What are the WIC monthly fruit and vegetable amounts: Children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• Can I keep my address off public voter lists: Yes—apply for the Secretary of State’s “Secure Active” voter designation if you have an active protection order or live in a shelter. (sdsos.gov)
• If I quit my job to stay safe, can I get unemployment: Possibly—South Dakota law recognizes domestic abuse as good cause under certain conditions, including timely reporting to law enforcement. (law.justia.com)

Local Organizations, Charities, Faith Communities, and Support Groups

• The Compass Center (Sioux Falls): counseling and advocacy, 605-339-0116. (thecompasscenter.org)
• Call to Freedom (anti‑trafficking): services and 24/7 help line 605-759-3565; office 605-261-1880. (calltofreedom.org)
• Feeding South Dakota: mobile food distributions statewide; use the map to find dates and places. (feedingsouthdakota.org)

What To Do If Any Step Stalls

• Ask for a supervisor at the agency and request a same‑day callback.
• Have your advocate three‑way the call and cite the agency’s own policy or federal protections (e.g., VAWA, expedited SNAP screening).
• Document every contact: date, name, number, what was promised, and any deadlines.

Find Your Local DSS Office (for SNAP/TANF/Child Care/LIHEAP)

Use the state directory to call directly; examples include Sioux Falls 605-367-5444, Rapid City 605-394-2525, Pierre 605-773-3612, Watertown 605-882-5000, and Mission 605-856-4489. See the full statewide list here. (dss.sd.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: dedicated benefits researchers focused on clear, accurate, and practical steps for families.

Methodology: this South Dakota guide uses official sources from the South Dakota Unified Judicial System, Department of Public Safety, Department of Social Services, Department of Health, USDA FNS, HUD, the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault, and established nonprofit providers. Links here go to application portals, official forms, and program pages. We verify across multiple official sources, archive key pages, and track changes. (ujs.sd.gov, dps.sd.gov, dss.sd.gov, doh.sd.gov, fns.usda.gov, hud.gov, sdnafvsa.com)

Editorial standards: our content follows our Editorial Policy with regular reviews, source link checks, and 48‑hour corrections. This page uses only trusted primary sources and avoids fixed benefit figures if official calculators are required. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Disclaimer

Important: program rules, dollar amounts, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with the relevant South Dakota agency or court. This guide is for general information; it is not legal advice and does not replace an attorney or an advocate’s counsel. To protect your privacy, use a safe device and clear your browser history. For corrections, email info@asinglemother.org.

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Source Notes and Citations

• Protection orders and forms: South Dakota UJS pages and SD Law Help. (ujs.sd.gov, ujslawhelp.sd.gov)
• Temporary/final order timelines and fees: WomensLaw SD pages and SDCL references. (womenslaw.org, casetext.com)
• Statewide hotlines and shelter contacts: SD Network, program sites. (sdnafvsa.com)
• Crime Victims’ Compensation benefits and cap: SD Dept. of Public Safety. (sdnafvsa.com)
• Text‑to‑911 availability: SD DPS Victims’ Services page. (dps.sd.gov)
• SNAP FY2025 maximums: USDA FNS COLA memo. (fns.usda.gov)
• SD SNAP income guidelines and portal: SD DSS. (dss.sd.gov)
• WIC FY2025 CVB amounts and SD income limits: USDA FNS and SD DOH. (fns.usda.gov, doh.sd.gov)
• Child Care Assistance income ceilings: SD DSS (effective March 1, 2025). (dss.sd.gov)
• LIHEAP FY2025 benefit range and timelines: LIHEAP Clearinghouse and SD DSS. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov, dss.sd.gov)
• VAWA housing protections and emergency transfers: HUD. (hud.gov)
• SAVIN victim notification: SD Attorney General. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
• Unemployment good‑cause due to domestic abuse: SDCL 61‑6‑9.1. (law.justia.com)
• Helpline Center 211 texting: Helpline Center contact page. (helplinecenter.org)

If you spot an error or a broken link, please email info@asinglemother.org and we will investigate within 48 hours per our policy.

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🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
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• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery