SDSU Extension, Shelf Stable Foods
A list of foods that don't need refrigeration, and a reminder to skip flawed cans.
Official page: extension.sdstate.edu/shelf-stable-foods-save-money-and-help-families-stay-prepared
How to Make Blessing Bags in South Dakota: Safe Food, Water and Cold Weather Tips
A simple guide to packing blessing bags for neighbors without a home in South Dakota, with SDSU Extension shelf stable food tips, CDC heat and cold tips, and a 211 card.
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Hi friend. A small bag with water, snacks and a few basics can mean a lot to someone on the street. South Dakota winters are hard, so pack smart and keep it simple.
Quick answers
What food is safe to put in a bag?
Pick shelf stable foods that don't need refrigeration, like canned or dried beans, canned tuna or chicken, peanut butter, crackers, cereal, granola, jerky, raisins and shelf stable milk. Skip cans with dents or bulges and anything past its date.
Official page: extension.sdstate.edu/shelf-stable-foods-save-money-and-help-families-stay-prepared
Which cans should I throw out?
The CDC says to discard bulging, open or damaged cans, and any can that spurts liquid or foam when opened. When in doubt, throw it out.
Official page: cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/keep-food-safe-after-emergency.html
What should I add for cold weather?
The CDC suggests a hat, a scarf or knit mask, and mittens or gloves, with loose layers and a water resistant coat. Warning signs of hypothermia are shivering, unusual exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech and drowsiness. A body temperature below 95 degrees needs medical attention right away.
Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
What should I add for hot weather?
Water matters most. The CDC says to drink water regularly and not wait until you're thirsty. Add a note about cooling places like libraries, and that cool showers help. Muscle cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care.
Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html
What info card should I include?
Write a small card that says: SD 211, dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211. Add 988 for crisis support. In Sioux Falls, add Bishop Dudley Hospitality House at 101 N Indiana Ave. In Rapid City, add the Pejuta Day Center at 522 Anamosa Street.
Official page: helplinecenter.org/services/211-helpline
Your next steps
Tick each one as you go. Your ticks stay on this phone only.
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All done. You are ready, friend.
Bunkly tip: in winter, pick items that won't freeze solid, like soft snacks and pouches. Wet socks make you cold fast, so add an extra dry pair.
Who to call in South Dakota
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
CDC, Keep Food Safe After a Disaster or Emergency
Which cans to throw out.
Official page: cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/keep-food-safe-after-emergency.html
CDC, Winter Weather
What to wear in the cold, and the warning signs of hypothermia.
Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
CDC, Heat and Health
Tips on water, cooling places and warning signs of heat illness.
Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html
SD 211, Helpline Center
Free help with shelter, food and health care. Dial 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211.
Official page: helplinecenter.org/services/211-helpline
Bishop Dudley Hospitality House
Daytime program at 101 N Indiana Ave. Call to ask what supplies they can use.
Official page: dakotaathome.sd.gov/search/2e1a044b-5665-58c1-b861-184a0c28f877
More help in South Dakota
Housing help in South Dakota (rent, eviction, utilities)Find Help in South Dakota: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and IDEmergency Shelter Tonight in South Dakota: Sioux Falls, Rapid City and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in South Dakota: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in South DakotaFree Job Help and Job Training in South Dakota: Job Service, SDWORKS and WorkshopsHealth and Mental Health Help in South Dakota: Medicaid, Clinics and 988Domestic Violence Safety and Housing Help in South DakotaVeterans Help in South Dakota: Housing, Health Care and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in South Dakota: Shelter, Outreach and Job CorpsGetting an ID and Documents Back in South Dakota: State ID, Birth Certificate and Social Security CardFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in South DakotaFree Legal and Tenant Help in South Dakota: Legal Aid, Eviction Steps and Deposits
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.