Yankton County contact center reports 3,111 acts of assistance in 2024, serves 919 households

At the meeting’s public‑comment portion, a representative for the Yankton County contact center presented the organization’s 2024 annual report and first‑quarter 2025 trends, telling commissioners the center provided 3,111 acts of assistance in 2024 to 919 households, reaching an estimated 2,284 community members.

"In 2024, we provided 3,111 acts of assistance, serving 919 households," the representative said, noting services included the food pantry, utility and rental assistance, emergency lodging and transportation help. The presenter noted the food pantry dispensed $119,530 worth of food and hygiene items in 2024 and reported that emergency assistance (rent, utilities, bus fare, medication and lodging) increased by about $7,000 year over year.

For January–April 2025 the contact center reported trends similar to 2024 but said rental and utilities assistance have already used nearly $10,000 so far this year and average monthly food‑pantry visits rose from 212 to 227. In answering commissioners’ questions, the presenter said the center does not require proof of income for clients but does require applicants show residency in Yankton County with a lease, utility bill or similar documentation plus identification.

Commissioners asked whether the center applies income limits; the presenter said there are no income limits but there are frequency limits on how often the center will assist the same household. A commissioner raised a concern about visible assets among some recipients; the presenter replied that circumstances vary and the center does not turn people away if they demonstrate need.

The presentation emphasized the contact center’s fiftieth year of service to Yankton County and upcoming community outreach events, including a 50th‑anniversary open house and an event at Market at the Meridian. Commissioners thanked the presenter for the report.