The Rosebud Health Services provided flu shots at Tree of Life ministry center.  On October 26, nurses gave free flu shots at the Warm Welcome.

The Warm Welcome operates as a cooperative store (co-op). Each guest that enters pays $1.06. The fee entitles the guest to a gift, whatever the co-op items are for the day (crackers, fruit, vegetables, etc.) and a hot meal. The meal is either breakfast or lunch. If someone does not have the money for the co-op fee, they go directly to the Warm Welcome dining area for their meal.

Most folks opted to have their shot and then eat a good lunch at the Warm Welcome. Everyday hundreds of people gather at the Warm Welcome in Mission, South Dakota for a warm greeting, a warm meal and a few items to take home.Photo courtesy of Tree of Life. Nurses from Rosebud Health Services provide free flu shots on October 26 at Tree of Life Ministry Center.

As we enter the cold and windy days of fall and winter, the Tree of Life is in need of children's clothing, shoes for all ages, disposable diapers and personal care items.  It is suggested that folks send gift cards or monetary donations, because of the high cost of postage. Monetary donation and gift cards allow staff to make purchases locally, boosting the local economy and the people in need.  Linda Garriot, director at Tree of Life states, “Thank you for your awesome support in time, gifts, and prayers as we serve the Lakota people and our neighbors of the Rosebud.” File photo. A Tree of Life guest tells Dakotas Conference staff why the Warm Welcome is important to her.

Tree of Life will hold a Harvest Festival on November 16. The festival will honor elders with a special lunch and gifts.  All are welcome to be a part of this special celebration.