Foster605 Awarded $30,000 to Launch CarePortal in South Dakota

Foster605 has been awarded a $30,000 South Dakota Fund grant from South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) to support the launch of CarePortal. The technology will strengthen systems of care for vulnerable children and families in South Dakota.

“This support helps bring communities together around a shared responsibility—ensuring children and families are surrounded with practical care at the moments they need it most,” said Pete Eekhoff, Foster605’s Chief Executive Officer.

CarePortal is a secure, technology platform that connects child welfare professionals with approved community responders to meet families’ real-time needs. These needs encompass essential items such as beds, car seats and clothing.

The grant will support system licensing, initial staffing, training and pilot operations as part of a phased, four-year rollout. The initial launch will begin in eastern South Dakota, with expansion planned across the state, including a strong focus on rural areas.

According to Eekhoff, CarePortal has a proven track record in 39 states.

“In the long run, this public-private collaboration will establish a solid infrastructure for supporting families impacted by foster care,” said Ginger Niemann, SDCF’s Senior Program Officer. “We’re pleased to play a role in getting it off the ground here in South Dakota.”

Founded in 2024 by Pete and Jenn Eekhoff, Foster605 empowers communities to create practical, supportive environments for children in foster care and to walk alongside families in crisis with care and dignity.

SDCF’s South Dakota Fund grants approximately $1 million each year to nonprofit organizations across the state. The grants are focused in nine areas and serve to build stronger families and communities.