Tree of Life is a Relief Agency, located in Mission, South Dakota on the Rosebud Reservation, serving several of the poorest counties in the United States.  With 80% unemployment, the services provided through this extension ministry are much needed.  

After 10 years, Rev. Russell Masartis is stepping down as Executive Director, but work will continue under new leadership. An appreciation of the Tree of Life Staff and of Russ and Donna Masartis' ministry at Tree of Life will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 22 at the Tree of Life in Mission, South Dakota.

Photo: Donna Masartis sorts through and packages donations at Tree of Life Ministry.  File photo.

Tree of Life has expanded services to many in the communities across the Rosebud Reservation under the leadership of the Masartis' and the staff.  The ministries of Tree of Life include;

Building a bridge of respect and compassion between cultures

Tree of Life has made great strides in developing respect and understanding between cultures, and breaking down racial prejudice and distrust.  This is accomplished by providing cultural presents to volunteers, working together with tribal agencies, and being involved in meeting daily needs.

Feeding the Hungry

Current census data shows that over 50% of the Lakota people live under the poverty level, and can not afford basic necessities.  Tree of Life distributes over 1,500,000 pounds of groceries each year, and provides about 52,000 free meals.  One of the teachers at the local school told us that when families cannot drive to the food pantry at “The Tree” then the children have to skip meals because of the lack of groceries.   The “Warm Welcome” food pantry serves over 200 families a day, four days a week.

Clothing those without the means to purchase new

With an average household income of under $8,000, and with many households numbering 10 or more family members living there, seldom can these families afford decent clothing.   New and used clothing are provided in a “shopping experience” to avoid people having to beg for necessities.  Tree of Life provides a “Thrift Shop Boutique” and well as sending free clothing to the leaders of each Rosebud community.

Providing safe, comfortable homes for impoverished families

The need is so great that a family may have to have their name on a waiting list wait for 5 years before tribal housing can make general repairs to a home.  Tree of Life makes free repairs to about 50 dwellings and community buildings each year.  There are families that have not had water in their homes for years, and use a garden hose to bring in water from a neighbor.  Building materials are expensive, and gifts and grants are a necessity to accomplish this ministry.

Education   

Photo: Russ Masartis leads a learning activity for a volunteers in mission at Tree of Life. File photo.

One of the important tasks undertaken by Tree of Life is to show Native Americans what Christians are really like.  Teams working together cheerfully, showing Christ-like compassion, and offering respect and love to all people demonstrate our witness.  "Throughout the year, it is our task to educate the many volunteers that come to offer their services as 1-week missionaries.  We believe that education and experience are the best ways to build respect and unity, destroy prejudice and distrust, and offer a base for the message of Jesus Christ," said Rev. Russell Masartis.

The Dakotas Conference is greatful for the many efforts of the staff and for the leadership of Russ and Donna Masartis over the past ten years.