Message from the City Manager and Chief of Equity and Inclusion

This week the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine received full Food and Drug Administration approval! The vaccine has met “high standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality the FDA requires of an approved product,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D.

Don’t wait. Don’t hesitate. Vaccinate.

To find a COVID-19 vaccine location near you, visit the website, www.vaccines.gov. If you have vaccine questions, are hesitant or have had a possible close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, please reach out to your healthcare provider.

Please keep in mind that due to the substantial increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the Public Health Committee of the Dallas County Health and Human Services unanimously voted to move the COVID Risk Level to Red. To learn more about what activities may be safely resumed by fully vaccinated and unvaccinated persons, please read this official health guidance for North Texans.

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, contact DCHHS to schedule 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.

Free COVID-19 Vaccine Pop-Up Event

Join DCHHS for a vaccination event this Friday, August 27th from 3-6 p.m. at Oak Lawn Brach Library. To learn more, view the flyer below. 

American Academy of Pediatrics: Pediatricians Answer Questions About Kids & the COVID-19 Vaccines

The Conversation being presented by the American Academy of Pediatrics has produced a series of videos of pediatricians answering frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and kids. Doctors, nurses, researchers and community health care workers provide facts and dispel misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines, in English and Spanish, in this FAQ video series from KFF with the Black Coalition Against COVID and UnidosUS.

• To watch the series, 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. 

Financial Resources

United Way Financial Guide

Every day is #FinancialAwarenessDay! Financial stability is a key ingredient of a steady, successful life. Along with education and health, it’s one of the building blocks of opportunity. Learn more about programs that can help families increase savings, improve credit scores, reduce debt, and avoid predatory lending products.

• To explore the resources available, click here.

Child Tax Credits

The child tax credit provides major tax relief throughout the second half of 2021 for nearly all working families in the U.S. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive:

• $300 each month for every child under 6 years old
• $250 each month for every child 6-17 years old

Foundation Communities is providing free guidance on how to receive child tax credits for those who are interested.

• To make an appointment with Foundation Communities, click here.

SNAP Benefits Increase

The American Rescue Plan Act of extends increases to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) maximum allotments from July 1, 2021, through Sept. 30, 2021.  To get SNAP benefits, you must apply in the state in which you currently live and you must meet certain requirements, including resource and income limits, which are described on this page. SNAP income and resource limits are updated annually. 

• To learn more about applying for SNAP benefits, click here.

MyHealthFinder

Vaccine Screening Tool

Check out the MyHealthFinder tool to learn which vaccines and screening tests your family needs to stay healthy! It provides personalized recommendations for you or a loved one. To personalize your recommendations, they ask about things like age and sex. They use your answers to give you the best recommendations and they don't share your information with anyone else.

• To access the screening tool, 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.

Young Adult Pandemic Aid

If you are a young adult in extended foster care or who has aged out, pandemic-related funds are available to help you with educational and transitional living costs and personal expenses. Various forms of support are available for those ages 14-21.

• To learn more about the eligibility requirements for these funds, click here.

Texas HHSC COVID-19 Treatments

Therapeutic antibody treatments play an important role in the state's ongoing fight against COVID-19. Healthcare systems, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities are encouraged to use these tools to reduce hospitalizations. 

• Call the statewide infusion hotline at 1-800-742-5990 or search for providers in your area by clicking here.

Arts and Culture

10 Year Celebration at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center

Oak Cliff Cultural Center has provided quality arts and culture programming for over 10 years. They are excited to celebrate and hope to have you join the fun as they “replay” OC3’s biggest hits through workshops, performances, and more.

• To learn more about this celebration, 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 procurement opportunities like the ones below, visit their website.

City Resources

Back to School Discussion: Human Trafficking Awareness

As students return to K-12 school and head back to college the Office of Equity & Inclusion – Human Rights Division is hosting an event to inform parents about the potential dangers and causes of human trafficking on August 27, 2021.

• To register for this discussion, click here.

Forward Dallas Neighborhood Summit

As a kick-off to the ForwardDallas Comprehensive Land Use Update, the Dallas Planning & Urban Design (PUD) department is hosting the ForwardDallas Neighborhood Summit for Dallas neighborhood leaders and residents to help understand the planning process and how to get involved. The Neighborhood Summit will include sessions to educate and inform about resources related to land use and provide tangible ways for people to participate in the planning process.

• To register for the event, click here.

Financial Navigators Program

The Financial Navigators program provides free referrals to residents in need of services like food, rental assistance, etc. This remote, confidential, financial navigation is available at no cost to help you prioritize financial concerns, identify action steps and more. 

• To learn more or schedule a session, click here. 

DART Transit Education

DART's "On the Go!" curriculum is FREE and brings the dynamic world of transportation to life through virtual presentations and tours. Transit Education is an innovative community outreach program designed for people of all ages. It is ideal for schools, non-profit organizations, scout groups, recreation centers, libraries, faith-based organizations, civic groups, senior organizations, community organizations and others.

• To take advantage of this helpful resource, click here.

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.

Education

STEM Education Resources

TERC is an independent research-based non-profit organization offering STEM education resources to help educators, parents, students, and others cope with school during COVID-19.

• To explore the various resources available, click here.

SEL For Parents and Caregivers

The SEL Department of Dallas ISD has created a guide to help parents and caregivers cope with back-to-school anxieties and COVID-19. Their SEL guides and other resources are available to help students succeed both at-home and school.

• To explore this information, click here.

Thriving Minds After School

If you are looking for a place for your child to learn, create and grow after the school day ends, there’s still time to register for Thriving Minds After School. This Big Thought program provides elementary and middle school youth with after-school educational experiences on campus.

• To find a participating campus, click here.

Employment           

Dallas ISD Virtual Job Fair

Dallas ISD's commitment to success drives their search for innovative, enthusiastic team members with the courage to lead. They are proud to provide you with different opportunities where you can meet and interview with their principals and their hiring team. Join them this Thursday, August 25 to explore available openings.

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

Dallas Parks and Rec

Dallas Parks is looking for creative & energetic individuals (18 & older) to join our Recreation Services team. Rec. Center Assistant positions let you have fun while getting paid!

• To apply for an available position, click 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.

CitySquare Food Pantry

The CitySquare Food Pantry operates on a first come, first-served basis with no pre-registration required. They are open to all zip codes. Neighbors can pick up groceries at our Pantry once every two weeks. We are operating in a drive-thru model with a walk-up station for individuals who walk or take the bus. Groceries are pre-packed to ensure the process is quick and safe, and that we maintain necessary safety precautions. 

• To learn more about their hours of operation, click here.

Crossroads Community Services

Clients can visit Crossroads’ Pantry once a month and are able to choose the food that they receive. On average a family of four receives 100 pounds of groceries when they visit Crossroads pantry. They serve anyone in need on an emergency basis. Your income should be below the current Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) income guidelines to receive ongoing assistance through Crossroads’ Food Pantry.

• To learn more about the requirements, click here.

Housing

Interfaith Rental Assistance Program

Interfaith’s rental assistance program for families has expanded! Interfaith can now provide financial assistance for past-due rent as well as monthly rent for 3-6 months. If you have children under age 18 and are unemployed or behind on your rent, Interfaith is here for you! Let them help you by paying your past due rent fees and monthly rent while you participate in their career training and financial coaching program.

• To apply today, click here.

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.

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.

Health

Dallas Golden Games

The Dallas Golden Games are an Olympics style fitness and leisure competition is for adults 50 and over, of all ability levels. This year’s event will begin on September 18th and run through September 25th, 2021. Participants will be able to compete in 8 different competitive sports.

• To learn more and register for this event, click here.

Immigrant Affairs

Refugee Resettlement Programs 

Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs Division (WCIA) affirms Dallas’ commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city for all immigrants. Throughout history, Dallas has been a safe haven for refugees from all over the globe. More recently, WCIA is working with community partners to identify and find solutions for needs of Afghan refugees that will be resettled in Dallas. If you are looking for an opportunity to get involved, here is a list of some local Dallas nonprofits that are requesting volunteers and assistance to support Afghan refugees: 

• Catholic Charities of Dallas
• International Rescue Committee
• Mosaic Family Services
• RAICES
• Refugee Services of Texas

Please email Christina da Silva, Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs Officer at christina.dasilva@dallascityhall.com if you have any questions or would like to add an organization to this list.

DACA Info Session and Legal Screenings

Join RAICES for this 30-minute information session, afterwards RAICES attorneys will provide free DACA screenings on a first-come, first-serve basis. Throughout the month, RAICES will also offer weekly workshops to help you get started on your DACA application. This event will be taking place September 2^nd at 6pm CST.

• To register for this upcoming event, click here.

Back to School Immigrant & Refugee Vaccine Equity Digital Toolkit

Just in time for back to school, the National Partnership for New Americans is kicking off their public education and awareness effort to share reliable information from trusted messengers about the Delta variant, the COVID-19 vaccine, and how to stay safe as the school year begins. Strong confidence in COVID-19 vaccines within communities leads to more people getting vaccinated, which will help stop the pandemic.

• To explore their digital toolkit, click here. 

Internet

Laptop and WiFi Hotspots

Library Card holders who live in the city of Dallas, students who attend public schools in Dallas, public school teachers within the city of Dallas, and city of Dallas employees are able to request Chromebook and hotspot bundles for their internet needs. Each laptop comes installed with Microsoft Office products for your use, including Word, Excel, and Powerpoint. It can also browse the internet, check email, and accomplish any tasks you might need a computer to do.

• To learn more about requesting a bundle, click here.

Free Home Internet

DISD students who are without home internet have the opportunity to apply for a high-speed free home internet connection for the 2021-2022 school year. Home connectivity is being offered to support student learning at home. To apply and receive home connectivity, your child must be enrolled in Dallas ISD and have a valid student ID. The application deadline is August 31^st.

• To fill out an application, click here.

LGBTQ+

Open Call: Queer Latino Art Night

The Oak Cliff Cultural Center is seeking artwork that expresses authentic and diverse viewpoints from the LGBTQIA+ experience. Artists are encouraged to show us what being an LGBTQIA+ person to them and express what their Pride looks like. In the spirit of inclusion, this call is open to individuals of all ages. 

• To learn more about this opportunity, click here.

Small Business Support

Dallas Forward

Dallas Forward strives for economic inclusivity and shared prosperity in Dallas by assisting our small and medium-sized businesses. Don't miss out on funds or grants that could be available to your business. Use the information on their sight to see which may be right for you.

• To explore their financial resources, click here.

Score Dallas

Dallas SCORE provides no-cost, confidential business counseling tailored to meet the needs of your business.  SCORE also offers Workshops and Seminars for a modest fee, for both start-up entrepreneurs and existing businesses looking for a fresh perspective and renewed focus for their business.

• To attend their workshops or receive guidance from a mentor, click here.

Grow Your Digital Skills

The Native American Business Association (NABA) is inviting individuals to grow their digital skills. Join them for a collaborative, meet and work remotely workshop. The workshop will be taking place Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at 5:30pm CST.

• To register for this remote workshop, click here.

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Resilience Division

Equity Division

Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs Division Fair Housing Division 311 Division If you need to connect with City services, please contact 3-1-1.