First Foster Parent at the Simply Smiles Children's Village

We are thrilled to introduce you to LaPrincia, the first Native foster parent at the Simply Smiles Children’s Village on the Cheyenne River Reservation!

LaPrincia is an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and, after living in Iowa for many years, she is returning to the Reservation to become a foster parent at the Simply Smiles Children's Village. For several months, we have been working closely with LaPrincia to help her to transition into this role. Now, LaPrincia is safely settled into her Village home with her daughter, and she is working through extensive trainings in order to welcome the first foster children into her care in the coming weeks!

When asked why she wanted to become a foster parent, LaPrincia said:

"I wanted to make a real difference in the lives of children on the Reservation. I can definitely let any child know that I know Rez life. I know about abuse, and I know about neglect. But, they can come out on the other side as survivors. Healing is possible and they are not alone.”

LaPrincia celebrates her Lakota culture and language and looks forward to the opportunity to learn more and share these practices and values with the children in her care.

“I honestly and wholeheartedly believe that my people should be closer to our culture and the Lakota ways because then I believe that they will not only feel empowered but they will also no longer feel lost,” said LaPrincia.

We look forward to our partnership with LaPrincia and our shared commitment to support and provide for Native children in a safe, stable, and loving environment.

On behalf of the entire Simply Smiles community, welcome, LaPrincia!

Learn about the Simply Smiles Children's Village

Our search for more Native foster parents continues for the next homes in the Children's Village! Check out this page and help us to spread the word:

Learn more about becoming a Native foster parent

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Take a virtual tour of the first home!