HOUSING SHORTAGE ON PINE RIDGE RESERVATION
An entire Native American population resides in Pine Ridge Reservation where living conditions are equivalent to those found among the poorest Third World countries. The average United States resident knows little to nothing about the history or current situation that Native Americans encounter everyday. 97 percent of the Pine Ridge population lives far below the poverty line. Members of the Lakota Sioux tribe lack resources and amenities needed for daily living.
The housing situation in Pine Ridge Reservation is devastating; here are a few facts on the conditions the Sioux tribe face every day:
There is an estimated average of 17 people living in a home that may only have two or three rooms.
Most homes lack appliances such as stoves, refrigerators and basic furniture, like beds, causing many to sleep on dirt floors.
At least 60 percent of the homes on Pine Ridge Reservation need to be demolished and replaced due to infestation of potentially fatal black mold.
Over 33 percent of homes have no electricity or basic water and sewage systems, forcing many to use (often contaminated) water from local rivers for their daily personal needs.
Nearly collapsed and dysfunctional shelter causes Pine Ridge Native Americans to live in overcrowded homes. The housing shortage on this reservation has left the Lakota Sioux tribe feeling hopeless. True Sioux Hope Foundation is helping to resolve these issues and is encouraging others to do so as well.
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