Message from the City Manager and Chief of Equity and Inclusion

Dear Residents of Dallas,

The delta variant is proving to be a threat unlike any other. As of August 11, the COVID-19 dashboard reported a staggering 6,677 cases in the Dallas region. These numbers have not been seen since February 1, 2021. This sharp increase requires that we collectively take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and our communities. The CDC recommends that “everyone in areas of substantial or high transmission to wear a mask in public indoor places, even if they are fully vaccinated.” Effective Wednesday, August 11 at 11:59pm, Dallas County will require indoor masking inside all Dallas County buildings, childcare centers, PreK-12 public schools, and commercial entities. To watch County Judge Clay Jenkins's statement and signing of the emergency order click here.

We will continue to provide updated vaccination and testing information to ensure that these resources are at your fingertips during these trying times. Join the City of Dallas Ad Hoc Committee on COVID-19 Recovery and Assistance on August 12th at 1:30 p.m. to hear local and national health experts on the latest COVID-19 data and vaccination equity efforts. To view previous and future committee updates, click here. 

It’s budget season for the City of Dallas! The economy is recovering faster than experts projected, and the federal funds provided to the City are making it possible for us to recommend a budget that meets many needs within the City.  Of course, with all budgets, there is never enough money to do everything. That is why it is important to be strategic and thoughtful about how we allocate the resources. Your feedback and input on the budget is important that is why the City has produced three short animated videos in English and Spanish that explain the budget in its simplest form, showing how Dallas uses your tax dollars to provide basic services to residents. Additionally, to view the financial transparency budget videos, please click here. 

We look forward to hearing your input and #StayOnGuard Dallas!

Sincerely,

                                 T.C. Broadnax                               Liz Cedillo-Pereira

                                  City Manager                      Chief of Equity and Inclusion

COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination

City of Dallas COVID-19 Updates

The City of Dallas is working around-the-clock to update information related to the COVID-19 virus on their online platform. Here you can find the most up-to-date information related to testing sites, vaccines, and resources available to help residents in need. Outreach toolkits and business resources are also available

• To keep informed on the latest information regarding COVID-19 in Dallas, click here.

Dallas County COVID-19 Vaccinations

In order to receive a vaccine from DCHHS pop-up clinic walk-ups are welcome, however, appointments are encouraged! Fair Park vaccinations ended Saturday, July 17^th, for those that are in need of their second dose can schedule with DCHHS or find a different vaccine location to receive the appropriate vaccine.

• To learn more about vaccination registration for Dallas County residents, click here.

Mobile Vaccine Program

The state mobile program provides a way for Texas businesses and people who are homebound to schedule free mobile vaccinations.

• Texas businesses, groups, or civic organizations with five or more individuals who voluntarily choose to be vaccinated can call 844-90-TEXAS (844-908-3927) and select Option 3 to schedule a visit.
• Texans who are homebound can call 844-90-TEXAS (844-908-3927) and select Option 1 to request a state mobile vaccination team to come to their home.

National Vaccine Finder

There are many ways to get fully vaccinated in Texas—you don’t need health insurance and the vaccine is always free. The Moderna (age 18+), Pfizer-BioNTech (age 12+), and Johnson & Johnson (age 18+) vaccine are currently being administered nationally, and the CDC has made it easier for individuals to get vaccinated through their National Vaccine Finder that helps you find a location through your zip code.

• To find a location near you today, click here.

Dallas County COVID-19 Testing

Dallas County COVID-19 Testing

Drive-Thru Locations

Dallas County currently has two drive-thru testing locations. Both sites may close early if daily testing limits have been met. In addition to the two drive-thru testing sites, several locations across the city of Dallas are offering testing as well as mobile and walk-up testing options.  

• To find the most convenient testing location for you, click here.

For mobile testing locations and State of Texas/TDEM Supported Sites, click here.

Paul Quinn College, free no-cost testing:

• Location: 3837 Simpson Stuart Road, Dallas, Texas 75241 •
• Hours of Operation: Saturdays from 10am to 4pm
• Requirements: Valid email address & phone number required, no insurance, residency, or symptoms required for testing

Additional Testing Sites

• Walgreens, no-cost drive-thru testing site:
• 2060 S. Buckner Blvd, Dallas, TX,
• Hours of Operation: Open from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, seven days a week.
• Requirements: Residents must complete a screening survey to determine if they qualify for a test.
• For more information regarding eligibility and how to sign up, visit: Walgreens COVID-19 information
• Walmart no-cost drive-thru testing site is administering COVID-19 tests at four locations:
• Locations: To find a location near you, click here.
• Hours of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 7 am to 9pm.
• Requirements: Residents who are interested must take a pre-screening test to see if it is necessary. Once they qualify the resident will make an appointment to get tested
• To take a pre-screening test and set up and appointment visit Do I Need a COVID-19 test. For questions about testing call 800-635-8611.
• CVS has opened up four new no-cost, drive thru COVID-19 locations in the North Texas region:
• Locations: To find a location near you click here, and enter both your ZIP code and distance from your home to find a testing location near you. 
• Hours of Operation: Patients must schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 test.
• Requirements: More information about CVS Health and their testing sites can be found at their COVID-19 resource center.
• To schedule an appointment, patients must register here. 

National Immunization Awareness Month

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout your life. We know the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of life, including your ability to attend important appointments and receive routine vaccinations. During NIAM, we encourage you to talk to your doctor, nurse or healthcare professional to ensure you and your family are protected against serious diseases by getting caught up on routine vaccination.

• To learn more about this important month, click here.

Eviction Moratorium Updates

On August 3, 2021, the CDC issued a temporary eviction moratorium to remain in effect through October 3, 2021. The eviction moratorium looks to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus by limiting evictions, allows additional time for rent relief to reach renters, and provides time to further increase vaccination rates.

The order applies in United States counties experiencing substantial and high levels of community transmission levels of COVID. Currently Dallas County, Denton County, and Collin County all show a high level of community transmission per the CDC COVID Data Tracker.

• To read the eviction protection declaration, click here.

CFPB Rental Assistance Finder

Find help with rent and utilities! State and local organizations are distributing federal rental assistance in their communities. The money can help landlords and renters who are struggling to keep up with rent and other bills. Many programs take applications from both landlords and renters.

• To use the CFPB rental assistance tool, click here.

Eviction Lab

The Eviction Lab at Princeton University creates data, interactive tools, and research to help neighbors and policymakers understand the eviction crisis. Their policies database can help families get the latest on local, state, and federal actions to help families stay informed on housing assistance and legal aid.

• To explore their database of assistance, click here.

Sign Up for the ACA

Time is running out - sign up for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) by this Sunday, August 15th to get low-cost coverage today! Even if you were priced out in the past, take a moment to check again. The American Rescue Plan lowered costs for ACA health insurance plans so now 4 in 5 shoppers can now find a plan for $10/month or less. Millions, including people who received unemployment benefits at any point in 2021, even qualify for plans at $0/month.

• To learn more and apply, click here. 

Childcare Program

Texas Childcare Availability Program

Find available childcare in Texas that meets your needs. Explore physical childcare programs based on your location and children's age or explore virtual programs! Providers are regularly updating information to showcase available openings. Quickly find providers accepting new families.

• To find a program that fits your needs, click here.

Childcare Assistance

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) childcare services program subsidizes childcare for low-income families, promoting long-term self-sufficiency by enabling parents to work or attend workforce training or education activities. TWC also provides resources to educate parents about the availability of quality childcare, which enhances children’s early learning.

• To learn more about the eligibility requirements to receive assistance, click here.

Texas Vaccine Outreach and Education Grant

The Texas Vaccine Outreach and Education Grant program is a partnership between Texas A&M Health and the Texas Department of State Health Services Immunization Unit to fund strategies that ensure greater knowledge of and access to COVID-19 vaccines by those disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Community-based organizations (CBOs) will be awarded funds to engage their community in proactive COVID-19 vaccine education and outreach activities with the goal of increasing the number of people fully vaccinated for COVID-19 in Texas.

• To learn more about the grant and apply, click here.

Arts and Culture

Dallas Museum of Art Family Workshop: Woven Together

Family Workshop is a class for 6–12-year-olds and their favorite grown-ups. Explore the galleries, engage in artful conversations, and then create a work of art in the studio. This August, explore art that's been spun, woven, and stitched together by master artists in sub-Saharan Africa. Learn all about prestigious cloths, from the meaning of their color patterns to the bugs that helped create them. To learn more about the workshop, click here.

City Procurement Opportunities

New Procurement Opportunities

The City of Dallas Office of Procurement Services has various opportunities for outside organizations to engage with the city. To view more information, visit their website. Select open procurements that may be of interest are listed below. For a comprehensive list of open procurement opportunities, visit: dallascityhall.bonfirehub.com. Please be advised that once an opportunity is advertised, it is considered an open procurement until the City Council awards the contract. The Code of Ethics prohibits communication between councilmembers and vendors/ suppliers on open procurements.

• To view more information, visit their website.

General Resources

Dallas Water Utilities Disconnections and Late Fees to Resume 10/1/2021

Dallas Water Utilities (DWU) suspended water disconnections and late fees in March of 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. DWU understands the need for all of our customers to have these essential services. As the country reopens and returns to normal, so is Dallas Water Utilities. To ensure continued and efficient delivery of utility services, DWU will resume water disconnections for accounts that are past due and will again apply late fees for past due balances starting October 1, 2021. Dallas Water Utilities is still here to assist you during these difficult times. We value all of our customers and will work with each and every customer to establish a payment plan that fits your budget. Customers who establish payment plans will avoid disruption of services and continue to avoid late fees.

• To receive additional resources or ask additional questions, please contact 311.

Affordable Auto Financing Class

In this free webinar, join On the Road Lending to discuss the importance - and availability of - affordable financing for auto loans. Did you know that high car payments are one of the top reasons for keeping purchase power low, and even mortgage loan denial? Even if you have subprime, little, or no credit, there may be a safer, more affordable financing option for you than overpaying in interest. Join them to learn about the alternatives provided by On The Road Lending!

• To learn more and attend the webinar, click here.

Budget 101 Video Series and Townhalls

The City produced three short animated videos in English and Spanish that explain the budget in its simplest form, showing how Dallas uses your tax dollars to provide basic services to residents.

• To watch the budgeting video series, click here.
• To attend a budgeting townhall for your district, click here.

Emergency Broadband Benefit Fund

The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program is helping people stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides a temporary discount on monthly broadband bills for qualifying low-income households. If your household is eligible, you can receive various discounts on your internet services!

• To learn more about this fund and apply by visiting here.

Education

For Oak Cliff Back to School Festival Our 7th Annual Back To School Festival will be held at two locations August 14th from 9am - 1pm drive-thru only! For Oak Cliff wants to continue to stay ahead of the game and prevent the spread of COVID-19 & it’s Delta Variant. So, this year backpacks will be available for pick up only while practicing social distancing. Everyone must pre=register and visit a pick-up location. To pre-register and find a location, click here.   Dallas Parks and Rec After School Programming Dallas Parks is now registering for our after-school programs at a recreation center near you! It is free for City of Dallas residents ages 5-12 ($50 per week for nonresidents). Contact your neighborhood recreation. center for more information. To find rec center information, click here. Dallas ISD to Return to Masking in All District Facilities Effective Tuesday, August 10, to protect staff and students from the spread of the highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus, Dallas ISD is temporarily requiring all staff, students, and visitors to wear masks when on district property. To read the entire headline, click here. Kleberg Drive-Thru Back to School Fair Come out to our Drive Thru Back to School Fair at Kleberg Rylie Rec. Center on Saturday, 8/14 from 12pm -2pm. Children ages 5-17 will receive school supplies, In-N-Out Burgers, give-aways, & more (while supplies last)! Must pre-register by calling 214-670-8648!

Employment

Job Corps

Job Corps is the largest, free job training and education program in the country. You can get the experience and skills you need to start a career that's right for you, go on to college. There are 100+ training areas to choose from, the options for your career are endless.

• To learn more about the opportunities available, click here.

Goodwill Community Foundation

The GCFLearnFree.org program has helped millions around the world learn the essential skills they need to live and work in the 21st century. From Microsoft Office and email, to reading, math, and more—GCFLearnFree.org offers more than 200 topics, including more than 2,000 lessons, more than 1,000 videos, and more than 50 interactives and games, completely free.

• To begin your education journey, click here.

Housing

City of Dallas Home Improvement & Preservation Program

The City of Dallas HIPP program provides homeowners money to perform major repairs to their homes. If you have questions about what is covered, how to apply or anything else about the program join an upcoming Q&A session. The HIPP application closes 09/11.

• To learn more about the application, click here.

Interfaith Rent & Utility Assistance

Interfaith family Services now provides funding for past due rent and monthly rent for up to 6 months. Clients who receive this assistance must be willing to obtain the financial and career coaching to help overcome future financial challenges. Their proven Family Empowerment Program is designed to help our clients increase wages, reduce debt, and build a savings safety-net in just a few short weeks. We offer a savings match of up to $150 dollars to those who participate in our financial coaching program.

• To apply and learn more about the program, click here.

Dallas Rental Assistance Collaborative

These DRAC partner organizations are here to lend a hand. An “eligible household” is defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals meets the criteria set for by the collaborative. The assistance provided can be used for direct financial assistance, including rent, rental arrears, utilities and home energy costs, utilities and home energy costs arrears, and other expenses related to housing.

• To learn more, click here.

Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The City of Dallas is partnering with Abounding Prosperity, Inc. to begin accepting applications for rental assistance through their Emergency Rental Assistance Program. To be eligible to receive funding an applicant must rent a publicly or privately owned residence in the City of Dallas. The annual gross household income must meet guidelines defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• To apply and learn more about the requirements, click here. 

Dallas Eviction Assistance Initiative

The City of Dallas Office of Equity and Inclusion in partnership with Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas has established an eviction assistance initiative consisting of education, training and legal representation to Dallas residential rental tenants who are negatively impacted by COVID-19 and unable to pay rent to remain in their homes. 

• Eligible residents can apply, by clicking here.

Food

 Aunt Bette’s Community Pantry

Residents living in zip codes 75210 and 75215 may register to become a client by stopping in with proof of residence during our hours of operation above, or on Tuesdays from 9am - 11am. Clients have appointments every 2 weeks. Visitors from any zip code or clients without an appointment are welcome to stop by during our hours of operation and will receive a limited supply of emergency food.

• To learn more and register, click here.

Dallas College Food Pantry

Dallas College's food pantries are here to help. You can find them located on our seven main campuses. Supplies range from snacks and meals to diapers. Everything is free to students in need. Community members can also access the Mobile Food Pantry each month as the North Texas Food Bank truck stops by each campus.

• To view the dates and hours of operation, click here.

Healthy Summer Meals for Kids

Dallas ISD Food's On-Site Summer Meals brings free meals to children and youth 18 years and younger at participating sites throughout Dallas on Wednesdays! Meals are available to all children in the area, ages 1 to 18, or to age 19 if enrolled in school, and to students with disabilities without regard to age.

• To learn more and find a participating site near you, click here.

Health

Addressing Childhood Trauma and Grief to Promote Child and Family Resilience

The Meadows Institute is continuing their 2021 Speaker Series with their fifth webinar event on Addressing Childhood Trauma and Grief to Promote Child and Family Resilience. Join us for this important discussion on August 18 with Julie Kaplow, PhD, ABPP, Executive Director of the Trauma and Grief Center at The Hackett Center for Mental Health.

• To learn more and register, click here.

Immigrant Affairs

Designation of Haiti for TPS

The Department of Homeland Security today posted for public inspection a Federal Register notice newly designating Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, effective Aug. 3, 2021, through Feb. 3, 2023. The designation of Haiti for TPS allows approximately 55,000 current beneficiaries covered under the Ramos and Saget preliminary injunctions to newly apply for TPS under this designation and retain TPS through Feb. 3, 2023, if they are otherwise eligible.

• To learn more about this designation, click here.

Extension of Initial Registration Period for TPS

The Department of Homeland Security today published a Federal Register notice announcing extensions of the initial registration periods from 180 days to 18 months for initial (new) applicants under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations of Venezuela and Burma as well as the redesignation of Syria. The FRN also provides certain specific corrections to the FRN regarding Venezuela (86 FR 13574).

• To learn more about this extension, click here.

LGBTQ+

Hug It Out Dallas: Fill the Truck Hug It Out Dallas is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support, acceptance, and family to LGBTQ+ youth.  They work to provide a safe space to learn, connect, build relationships, and empower our young people to reach their true potential.  Their Shoe Some Love Shoe Drive has been incredible so far, so they are bringing you a Shoes and Snowcones Fill the Truck event! Come out to Shenaniganz Rockwall on Saturday August 22 from 2-5pm to help them Fill the Truck with as many new/gently used shoes as they can! To learn more about this upcoming event, click here.

Small Business Support

Lender Match

If you’re interested in being connected to lenders use the SBA’s lender match tool by answering a set of questions in order to receive an email with information from lenders who are interested in offering their services to you. You have an opportunity to compare rates and submit loan applications once you are ready.

• To explore lender match, click here.

PPP Direct Forgiveness Portal

Register and apply for PPP forgiveness! This portal is made available by the US Small Business Administration to streamline forgiveness processing for PPP Borrowers. After registration, you may use this streamlined process to automatically submit your forgiveness request to your lender.

• To learn more about this portal, click here.

Follow Us on Social Media

Resilience Division

Equity Division

Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs Division Fair Housing Division