RAPID CITY, S.D. — A coalition of local food trucks has announced plans to continue its monthly community feed indefinitely. Those in need of a hot meal can meet with the food trucks on the last Sunday of each month in Market Park. The effort started back in November by Malissa Walters, owner of Malissa’s Frybread, an indigenous food truck that serves areas in and around Rapid City, Oglala Lakota County, and even as far as Lower Brule.
The Community Feed was initially scheduled to end after April, but organizers decided to make the feed an ongoing commitment due to the significant number of people seeking meals and the consistent turnout of volunteers. Malissa told NewsCenter1 that she typically is closed on Sundays, reserving the day for family. While Malissa and the food trucks behind her haven’t organized a registered non-profit, she hopes that her guerrilla-style support inspires other food trucks in the area to join the effort.
“There’s over 90 food trucks in the Black Hills area, so if they’re willing to come out and help, I’d definitely appreciate it, and I know our relatives would too,” Walters said.
The April feed saw contributions from You’Nique Brew, Black Cottage Kitchen, and The Good Stuffed. Previous months have included participation from Mercy’s Tacos, The Meltdown Rolled Ice Cream, and Tacos Los Carnales, showcasing a collaborative spirit among local businesses.
The event also included a free clothing distribution. Volunteers, like Jaydah Sazonov, collect donated items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, and bring them to the park. The idea was to distribute clothes and toys to individuals who may not have transportation to pick them up otherwise.
“You just feel like you’re helping people and it just feels good to give people what they don’t have,” Sazonov said.
The next community feed is scheduled for Sunday, May 25th, at Market Park at 1pm. Organizers encourage those interested in volunteering, donating, or participating as a food vendor to contact them via the
Malissa’s Frybread Facebook page
.
Per grew up in Sioux Falls and graduated from South Dakota Mines. He found his passion for weather reporting by the impact it has on the community, both in how people work and how it brings people together through severe weather preparation. He also has a passion for preventing health issues with Air Quality Index awareness. Per can be found enjoying outdoor activities in the Black Hills when the weather allows.
