Catholic Health World Articles

September 09, 2025

Avera hospital to build women's residential drug treatment facility with help of $3.8 million state grant

Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton, South Dakota, will construct an 18-bed residential facility to treat women, including those who are pregnant and those with children, in need of substance use disorder therapy.

Avera Health is receiving a $3.8 million state grant, facilitated by the South Dakota Department of Social Services, for the project.

"This facility will support pregnant and young mothers struggling with addiction. It will provide a safe, supportive place for these mothers to receive clinical support for their addiction," Gov. Larry Rhoden said in an announcement in July. "This will allow the moms to focus on being the good mother that their kids deserve."

The hospital will build and own the facility, partnering with Lewis & Clark Behavioral Health Services for programming and services.

"Avera is committed to serving our community’s needs through meaningful and innovative solutions," Victoria Hanson, Avera Sacred Heart Hospital regional president and CEO, said in statement. "We are grateful for Governor Rhoden and the state of South Dakota's support of this work and caring for this important population."

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