Wacanga

Wacanga is a registered corporate entity that operates as a tax-exempt, non-profit organization and is recognized as an Indian Tribe. Structured as a domestic shelter and tribal organization, Wacanga is actively engaged in providing critical support services primarily focused on addressing domestic violence, sexual assault, and victim assistance within Native American communities. The organization has maintained a consistent federal registration since 2007, with its current SAM.gov registration valid through April 30, 2026, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to serving vulnerable populations through federal grant programs.

Wacanga has received multiple federal grant awards from key agencies including the Administration on Children Youth and Families and the Office for Victims of Crime. Its primary grant work centers on Family Violence Prevention and Services State Grants (FVPS) spanning multiple years from 2022-2025, which are formula grants designed to support domestic violence intervention and prevention. In 2020, Wacanga was awarded a specialized discretionary grant to expand emergency shelter and direct services for domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking victims. The grant enabled the organization to provide comprehensive victim services including crisis interventions, legal support, healing and cultural practices, victims advocacy, emergency services, and transportation. Additionally, Wacanga has received sub-grant awards from the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, including VOCA (Victims of Crime Assistance) and FVPSA (Family Violence Prevention and Services Act) grants, further extending its capacity to support victims through collaborative partnerships with state-level public safety entities.