Message from the City Manager and Chief of Equity and Inclusion

Dear residents of Dallas,

Today the City of Dallas Human Rights Division will be celebrating World Freedom Day. World Freedom Day commemorates when the Berlin Wall came down, which was built  in 1961 after World War II. The City invites the public to mark and celebrate November 9 as a symbol of a free world. Freedom is a fundamental right that everyone deserves. Youth for Human Rights has compiled action items that individuals can take to celebrate world freedom and help make a difference.

November is also American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month! As of 2020, there are 574 federally recognized Indian tribes. In Texas there are three federally recognized tribes with  reservations: the Alabama-Coushatta, Tigua, and Kickapoo; and more recently, the state also recognized the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas. American Indian Heritage Day in Texas, led by founder Peggy Larney and artist Brian Larney, have partnered with the Inter-Tribal of AT&T Employees to create a beautiful mural to commemorate the preservation of the rich Native American heritage.

The art wall wraps around the building at the corner of Akard and Jackson Street can be enjoyed all month during various time slots. To view the times and learn more, click here. We encourage everyone to participate by supporting local tribal organizations such as American Indian Heritage Day and educating ourselves on the deep, and storied history of American Indian Natives in 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, 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.

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

Child Tax Credit Deadline

The deadline for families to sign up for the Child Tax Credit (CTC) is November 15^th. Families, including those who aren’t required to file taxes, can go to GetCTC.org, a tool that is in English and Spanish, and mobile friendly. Most families can complete it within about 15 minutes!

• For more information regarding immigrant families and the CTC click here, and for general information click here.

National Pedestrian Safety Month

Lorem ipsum dolor sit ametMore than 6 in 10 people walk for transportation, exercise, relaxation, or for other activities. When you are driving, lives are at stake. By being more aware of our surroundings and following these tips, we can have zero pedestrian fatalities. Keep Dallas roads safe for everyone.

• To learn more about the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration pedestrian safety month campaign, click here.

Healthcare Open Enrollment

Enroll in or renew 2022 health insurance today! You have through January 15 to apply for new 2022 health insurance, or renew, change, or update your 2021 health plan for 2022. Enroll by December 15, 2021, for coverage that starts January 1, 2022.

• To apply online now, click here.

Caregiver's Corner

Texas DFPS Safe Sleep Month

Do you know if your baby is sleeping safely tonight? During Safe Sleep Month, learn how your baby's safe sleep can help improve your peace of mind. We can help with safe sleep tips, how to calm a crying baby, and ways to manage parenting stress.

• To learn more about safe sleep tips, click here.

Financial Literacy

Building Wealth

Building Wealth is a personal finance education resource that presents an overview of wealth-building strategies for consumers, community leaders, teachers, and students. With this program you can learn to set financial goals, budget, save and invest, and more!

• To learn more about Building Wealth, click here.

Preventing Financial Exploitation

Preventing elder financial exploitation can be accomplished when everyone works together! A prevention checklist by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau explains how exploitation can be prevented through advanced planning, setting up automatic bill payment, and checking credit reports regularly.

• To learn more about steps to prevent financial exploitation, click here.

Arts and Culture

Día de los Muertos Celebration

The Hughes Family Tribute Center will present its seventh Día de los Muertos Celebration on Saturday, November 6, 2021, in Crown Hill Memorial Park. The Celebration builds on this tradition by presenting an opening parade; dance performances by Grupo Pakal, specializing in Mayan dance presentations; live mariachi music by Mariachi Lone Star; community art projects; children’s entertainment; a live concert by Latin band, Fusion Latina; a screening of the movie, Coco; and food and beverage concessions. 

• To learn more about the celebration, click here.

Paint by Number at Hampton-Illinois Branch Library

Oak Cliff Cultural Center, Dallas Public Libraries, and the Dallas Police Department invite you to “Paint by Number” alongside artist Fred Villanueva and enjoy live music performed by Jazz Becuzz. Participants will complete the mural in a “Paint by Number” fashion. The mural will be located at Hampton-Illinois Branch Library (2951 S Hampton Rd, Dallas, TX 75224).All materials will be provided.

• To learn more about this event, click here.

City Opportunities

City 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.

           City Employment Opportunities

The City of Dallas has a variety of open position available through different departments for individuals who are interested in joining the city workforce. All opportunities are available through an online portal, in order to apply, interested individuals will need to create an account using a valid email address and unique password.

• To search for opportunities available with the city, click here.

Education

Free TSIA Testing

The Texas Success Initiaitve is used to determine if students are ready for college-level work in the areas of reading, writing, and and math. If you are an incoming college student in Texas, you are required to take the TSI Assessment - unless you are already exempt (read below) - to determine your readiness for college-level work. TSIA testing is offered for free for seniors in DISD schools.

• To learn more about free TSIA testing, click here.

Young Leaders Strong City 8th Annual Teen Equity Summit

All 9th - 12th grade students are welcome to join Young Leaders Strong City for the 8th Annual Young Leaders, Strong City Teen Equity Summit. The summit is a half-day leadership development experience with meaningful discussions on identity, equity, and organizing for change. Check out last year's virtual summit recap.

• To register for the teen equity summit, click here.

Employment

Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas

Workforce Solutions (WSGD) is offering both in-person and virtual workforce services for jobseekers who are interested in having center professionals guiding their job search. WSGD can help people from the beginning to the end of the job search process, from creating a resume to educations and training.

• To learn more about the services offered, click here.

Aspire Workforce Training

Interested in a career in logistics, transportation, warehousing, distribution, or manufacturing? As part of the workforce preparation programming, Aspire offers free Powered Industrial Truck (forklift) training and certification to students. In just four days, students can learn how to operate forklift technology by OSHA Standards and receive official certification that is valid for 3 years.

• To learn more about this free training, click here.

Food

New Vida Food Pantry

New Vida Food Pantry opens every 1^st Saturday of the month from 11:00am-1:00pm. They are currently doing drive-thru distributions. Individuals and families are requested to bring some sort of identification, whether it be an ID or simply a piece of mail showing your name and adress.

• To learn more, click here.

Jan Pruitt Community Pantry Schedule

The Jan Pruitt Pantry from Catholic Charities of Dallas serves residents in 75134, 75146, 75172, 75141, 75241, and 75154 zip codes. Proof of residency is required such as: current utility bill, auto insurance, driver’s license, or any government letter. To register to shop at Jan Pruitt Community Pantry, please visit us after service hours:

• Tuesday – Thursday from 9:00am – 1:00pm
• Friday from 9:00am – 1:00pm
• Saturday from 1:00pm – 4:00pm

To register as a client for the pantry, click here.

North Texas Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry

The NTFB Mobile Food Pantry distribution is taking place in various locations across the city during the month of September. There is no need to register for Mobile Pantry pick up, it is first come first served. You must have a vehicle to pick up unless otherwise specified. Mobile Pantry participants are requested to give their name and share their family size to receive food. No proof is necessary.

• To find a location near you, click here.

Community Resources

Black Women in Non-Profit Leadership 2022 Cohort

Black Women in Nonprofit Leadership (BWNPL) is a cohort offered by Dallas TRHT to provide an intentional racial healing space for Black women in the nonprofit sector. It is designed to support Black women with self-care, community-care, healing, personal and professional development and crafted to the specific needs of Black women leaders. They are now accepting applications for the 2022 cohort.

• To learn more about this initiative, click here.

The Lullaby House Teen Parenting Programs

The Lullaby House Teen Parenting Programs are designed to reduce the number of pregnant and parenting teens, reduce repeat pregnancies, increase their sense of self-worth, teach parenting and life skills, increase access to healthcare, and help teens complete high school and enter the workforce. Their Teen Parent Support Group meets every Monday at 6:00pm on Zoom!

• To learn more about their support program and more resources they offer, click here.

Housing

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. 

Emergency Rental Assistance Event

Are you a City of Dallas resident and behind on rent and utilities due to COVID-19? The Fair Housing Division will be hosting an Emergency Rental Assistance Event on November 6^th, to help individuals understand what resources and aid are available to them.

• Eligible residents can apply, by clicking here.

Health

For Oak Cliff Health Talk

For Oak Cliff is hosting a free Health Talk on November 11^th alongside Healing Hands Home Health Company, podiatrist Dr. Dan Jones, and cardiologist Dr. Mark Jenkins. The event is for individuals aged 55+, there will be raffle prizes and free dinner for attendees.

• To learn more and RSVP, click here.

Fall Health Festival

Dallas Parks and Recreation wil be hosting a drive-thru Fall Health Festival for adults 60+. The festival will be held at 4 different locations on November 18^th at 10am. Attendees can receive free health screenings, COVID-19 vaccines & boosters, and more information.

• To learn more about the health festival, click here.

Northeast Kid’s Health & Safety Fair

The Northeast Division of the Dallas Police Department will be hosting its Annual Kids Health & Safety Fair (Honoring Special Needs Families) on Saturday, November 13, 2021, at Lake Highlands High School, located at 9449 Church Road.  The fair will be from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Taking into consideration the safety of all involved, this year’s fair will be Drive-Thru Only.

Immigrant Affairs

Webinar on Community Sponsorship of Refugees

Community sponsorship provides an avenue for individuals, groups, and organizations to participate in the resettlement of refugees. This webinar will explore the various community sponsorship models and provide resources for communities wanting to take part in supporting refugee families. If you’re looking to better understand the options for community sponsorship, register for the November 17^th event to hear from experts and learn how to get involved.

• To register for the event, click here.

LGBTQ+

Transgender Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) & Primary Care

In collaboration with local public and private practices, Nu Transgender Movement has compiled a list of trans-friendly physicians that provide services with the upmost integrity. Regardless of Insurance and ability to pay. They are here to help make your transition more accesible.

• To learn more and get in contact with a Nu Transgender Movement representative, click here.

Point Foundation LGBTQ+, BIPOC Scholarship

Generations of racism and an education system born from discriminatory policies have made clear that BIPOC students face greater obstacles to educational achievement. When these challenges are combined with those faced by students who also identify as LGBTQ, the impediments can make a higher education degree seem impossible. The Point Foundation aims to mitigate these issues by providing financial support, community resources, and professional development.

• To learn more about the scholarship click here.

Small Business Support

LEAP Program

The Impact Venture’s LEAP (Local Entrepreneurs Accelerator Program) is a 10-week 100% virtual program designed for early-stage small businesses led by women and BIPOC founders. This program focuses on improving the capacity of existing small businesses with the opportunity to create local living wage jobs, increase access to capital, and stimulate the local North Texas economy.

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

How to do Business with the City of Dallas: Non-Profit Edition

Come learn how non-profits can engage with the City of Dallas. Learn how to do business with the City as well as upcoming opportunities. The event will be lead by Chhunny Chhean, director of procurement for the City of Dallas, and more procurement experts on November 9^th from 3pm-4pm.

• To register for the event, click here.

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