Working Together for a Stronger Community: Supporting Our Unhoused Neighbors in Rapid City

Rapid City is taking meaningful steps to support individuals facing housing insecurity. With the backing of leaders like Councilman Pat Roseland, the city continues to strengthen a network of outreach, care, and prevention services designed to offer dignity, stability, and long-term solutions.

Pat has been a consistent advocate for coordinated care, including his support for the Medical Respite Center, which provides a safe place for unhoused individuals to recover after hospital stays. He remains actively involved in citywide strategies aimed at expanding services and reducing barriers for those in need.

A Community-Based Approach to Support

Outreach & Support Services
Organizations like Journey On connect with individuals daily, offering essentials like food, water, hygiene supplies, and transportation to services. Their compassionate approach helps build trust and creates pathways toward stability.

Quality of Life Unit
A team of officers and caseworkers works directly with high-need individuals to connect them with housing resources, addiction treatment, and mental health support. This collaborative model focuses on long-term solutions, not short-term fixes.

Warming Stations and Crisis Shelters
During cold weather, warming stations provide safe overnight shelter. Additional city investments in crisis services and detox programs ensure individuals can access help during critical moments.

Prevention and Transitional Housing
Through Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) and other programs, Rapid City offers rental assistance to help individuals stay housed. Transitional housing programs provide a safe and supportive environment for those rebuilding their lives.

Addressing Panhandling with Respect and Resources

The city’s approach to panhandling balances community safety with compassionate support:

• Ordinances have been implemented to guide panhandling activity in public areas, especially downtown.

• A public education campaign encourages residents to consider donating to local service providers instead of giving directly to individuals.

• The city continues to promote volunteerism and donations to organizations like the Hope Center, Cornerstone Mission, and other trusted partners.

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Pat Roseland’s Commitment

Pat believes that a stronger Rapid City means no one is left behind. His leadership has supported compassionate, strategic responses to housing insecurity, including:

• Advocating for and supporting the Medical Respite Center

• Collaborating on citywide efforts to expand services for unhoused individuals

• Championing prevention, outreach, and housing initiatives across Ward 5 and beyond

“Our work isn’t done, but we’re moving in the right direction. When we treat people with dignity and invest in real solutions, we lift up the entire community.” – Pat Roseland