Program & Services

South Dakota CARES is 'not' a state entity and is 'not' supported with tax payer dollars. We count on YOU solely to help us provide for the children and adults in South Dakota.

Children’s Services

Birth to 3 Connections - Services include identification, evaluation and treatment of developmental disabilities for young children. The program also helps families identify other resources as needed and teaches parents how to advocate for their children. Developmental and hearing screenings are available to all children from birth to age three at no charge. South Dakota CARES serves nineteen counties in South Dakota for the South Dakota Department of Education.

Adult Services

Day Care - The Daisy House in Rapid City offers daycare for the elderly and individuals with special needs. It specializes in person-centered care plans for each participant. The Daisy House offers a home-like environment with fun and therapeutic activities.

Education and Awareness

Caregiver Support – Caregiver Support Groups are open to all those wishing to attend. Presently, this group meets in Rapid City and Spearfish, South Dakota. Anyone wanting to attend, please call our Rapid City Daisy House and request the monthly meeting place and time.
Save Our Farm Youth (SOFY) - This program organizes farm safety camps in 30 communities around the state. They are conducted to educate 4 to 15 year olds about potential dangers on the farm. This program is conducted in partnership with SDSU Cooperative Extension Service and Avera Rural Health Institute.

General Rehabilitation

Recycle For Life Program - South Dakota CARES accepts donations of durable medical equipment which is cleaned and redistributed to individuals in need. Equipment accepted includes, but is not limited to, manual wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, shower benches and toilet risers.
Hearing Aid Lending Program – Donated, used hearing aids are collected, refurbished and distributed to adults and children in need.