T. Denny Sanford Donates $1 million to One Sioux Falls Fund

Date: March 31, 2020

Contact: T.J. Nelson, Mayor’s Office, (605) 367-8802

Sioux Falls, South Dakota: In an effort to help people struggling financially due to the COVID-19 outbreak, local businessman and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford has generously pledged $1 million to the One Sioux Falls Fund.

“Time after time, Denny has stepped up and been generous to the people of Sioux Falls,” said Mayor Paul TenHaken. “As people in Sioux Falls grapple with the financial difficulties resulting from the COVID-19 virus, Denny has come forward to help a lot of people in need. I am grateful for Denny’s contribution and friendship during this challenging time for Sioux Falls.”

“Sioux Falls has given me so much in my life and I want to make sure those hurting right now have a helping hand. We will get through this and I am happy to help the community overcome the effects of this virus,” said Sanford.

At the City Council meeting tonight, the Sioux Falls City Council approved an agreement to contribute up to $1 million to the One Sioux Falls fund. The City’s existing housing budget will contribute $250,000 and $750,000 from supplemental appropriations that would be officially approved upon second reading at the April 7 City Council meeting. Mr. Sanford’s donation, the City’s contribution and other donations and commitments would bring the fund total to $3.1 million.

The goal of the fund is to help residents in the Sioux Falls MSA (Minnehaha, Lincoln, McCook and Turner counties), who are unable to qualify for federal or state assistance avoid evictions and financial hardships if they are unable to work due to COVID-19. Applicants will be required to demonstrate financial impact with appropriate documentation.

Notification went to the first round of fund recipients this week. The dispersal, which totaled $166,000, will assist 277 families avoid housing evictions due to COVID-19 economic impacts. More applications are under review this week.

Residents of the Sioux Falls MSA who are in need of assistance can apply for help from the One Sioux Falls Fund through the Helpline Center at helplinecenter.org.

Those interested in donating can visit the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation website at sfacf.org.