Collaborative Support for Homelessness in Sioux Falls

Our Collaborative Approach

Addressing homelessness requires effective collaboration among many partners. The City works closely with Minnehaha County, the State of South Dakota, nonprofit organizations, faith communities, businesses, and the public to provide comprehensive support.

No single entity can solve homelessness alone. By working together across sectors, we can better address the root causes and connect individuals with the resources they need.

Preventing Homelessness Through Housing

Through multiple efforts, the City focuses on increasing the supply of affordable housing in Sioux Falls. Safe, stable housing is one of the keys to preventing individuals and families from becoming homeless.

In 2024, the City assisted in the completion of 75 new affordable housing units and 138 rehabilitated units. For 2025, the City is working with partners on 377 new units and 45 rehabilitated units.

View the Housing Dashboard to see detailed information about affordable housing development in Sioux Falls.

Understanding the Issue: Point in Time Count

Each year, communities across the country conduct a Point in Time Count to provide a snapshot of homelessness. In early 2025, 625 individuals experiencing homelessness were counted in Sioux Falls. While this annual count provides only a limited view of a complex and changing situation, it remains an important tool for tracking trends over time.

Nearly a dozen local organizations participate in conducting the Point in Time Count each year.

Addressing Encampments with Compassion

When encampments are identified on City property or public spaces, the City follows a process that prioritizes dignity and connects people to services: 

• Clear, early communication with individuals about the process and available housing and shelter options.
• Working with outreach workers and service providers.
• Adequate time for individuals to gather their belongings.
• Information about additional resources and support.
• Transportation assistance when needed.

This approach reflects our commitment to treating all community members with respect and encouraging them to seek our existing network of services while maintaining safe public spaces. Learn more in Chapter 136: Prohibition of Certain Structures in Public Places in the City’s Code of Ordinances.

Homeless Outreach Services

Falls Community Health provides street medicine and homeless outreach services in Sioux Falls. They offer medical care, education, and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Learn more about Falls Community Health homeless outreach.

Since 2023, the City has contracted with South Dakota Urban Indian Health to provide street outreach services to those experiencing homelessness. This is a proactive approach to connect with individuals by meeting them where they are to assist them with various needs, like housing, food and water, treatment plans, resources, or medical care.

Winter Preparation

Minnehaha County leads the effort to prepare for winter weather and ensure individuals experiencing homelessness have access to warming centers and emergency shelter. Since Michelle Treasure, the homelessness services coordinator for the City of Sioux Falls, was hired in 2024, the City has helped proactively communicate planned efforts to support those experiencing homelessness. Winter preparation plans are updated each year.

In 2025, Minnehaha County alongside the City of Sioux Falls and several non-profit partners agreed to a Community Extreme Weather Plan during the winter months. This plan is based on five pillars or agreements:

• Living outside is dangerous.
• Continuous assessment of emergency shelter space is vital.
• Wrap-around services are critical.
• One size does not fit all.
• Family reunification is a priority.