Equity and Inclusion Newsletter 7

city of Dallas

Equity and Inclusion Newsletter

June 19, 2020 | Issue 7

Message from the City Manager and Chief of Equity and Inclusion

Dear Residents of Dallas, 

On this day in 1865, two years following the Emancipation Proclamation many enslaved African Americans in Texas learned that they were now freeJune 19, 1865 better known as Juneteenth marks a U.S. Holiday first established in Texas.  One hundred fifty-five years later the African American community still faces racism, brutality, and systemic inequities. The current calls to make Juneteenth a U.S. federal holiday is an example of how much work we must do as a city, state, and country. Words of affirmation and solidarity are not enough, we must make a commitment to an actionable plan to confront the inequities. Take time to learn more about Juneteenth and the events that will be happening in Dallas:  

  • Friday June 19 from 10am – 12pm The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center will host a Drive-Thru Juneteenth Celebration. Attendees can drive through the MLK parking lot and receive free non-perishable food items, hygiene kits, and household products. 
    • For more information follow this link. 

Juneteenth2
  • Not My son is holding their first annual Juneteenth Celebration. There will be food, music, games, and raffles. Admission and food are free. The event will be followed by a march at 7:00pm. Masks are required upon entering. To enter the celebration, you must be either following them on Twitter or Instagram or 'Like' their page on Facebook. 
    • Location: Lofty Spaces 816 Montgomery Street, Dallas, TX 75215
    • Date: Friday, June 19, 2020 at 3pm-7pm CDT
    • Click for more information. 
Juneteenth1
  • June 19, 2020 at 6pm EST join Dallas Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation for a virtual Juneteenth experience presented by Every Dope Girl and Verizon Media in partnership with HuffPost Black Voices. 
    • If you are interested in joining, click this link at 6pm EST. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We hope to see you at one of the many wonderful events taking place around the city!

Sincerely, 

 

Liz and TC

                                    T.C. Broadnax                               Liz Cedillo-Pereira

                                     City Manager                       Chief of Equity and Inclusion


Celebrating Immigrant Heritage Month

The month of June is recognized by the United States Congress as “Immigrant Heritage Month.” The month has been designated as a time to celebrate the contributions of immigrants to the fabric of American society. While we recognize the accomplishments of immigrants, it is also important to recognize that our policies and practices haven’t always been welcoming to the immigrant community, and that we must be proactive in our journey to create an inclusive community. That is why in 2019 the City of Dallas became the first city in Texas to become a Certified Welcoming City.

IHM

Becoming a Welcoming City means that Dallas recognizes it has a responsibility to uplift the stories of our immigrant neighbors. As well as a duty to ensure that city services and resources also serve the needs of immigrant families and businesses. The work of welcoming must be intersectional. We recognize that a community cannot be welcoming if it does not actively combat racism. The Equity and Inclusion Team is committed to promoting the economic, civic, and social needs of the immigrant population in Dallas in order to uphold the values of Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, and Equity that the city has adopted. Every Dallas resident can celebrate with us by choosing to support one of the many local, immigrant-owned shops and restaurants in our vibrant city.


Dallas Testing Sites 

There are two COVID-19 Community Based Testing sites in Dallas. Criteria for testing sites is as follows:

  • Persons with symptoms of potential COVID-19 infection, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, new loss of taste or smell, vomiting or diarrhea, and/or sore throat; OR
  • Anyone 65-years-old or older, OR
  • Anyone with chronic health issues (diabetes, asthma, heart issues, etc.); OR
  • Any first responders, DART drivers, healthcare workers, grocery store and essential retail store workers; OR
  • Persons with symptoms who have been actively engaged in large group settings, such as public gatherings or congregations of people, within the past fifteen (15) days

The community-based testing sites operate Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to noon located at:

  • American Airlines Center, Parking Lot E, 2500 Victory Plaza
  • Ellis Davis Field House, 9191 S Polk St.

The City has expanded COVID-19 testing to provide mobile testing to residents in undeserved communities without transportation. Eligible residents may schedule appointments between:

  • 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., 7 days a week by calling the UrgentCare2GO screening line at 1-888-601 0568.
  • There are now various drive-thru COVID-19 testing sites, to find a location near you visit Texas Department of State Health Services webpage and enter your zip code.
FLyer1

Additional Testing Sites in Dallas

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:
    • 15757 Coit Rd., Dallas, TX 75248
    • Belt Line Rd., DeSoto, TX 75115
    • N Garland Ave., Garland, TX 75040
    • Lakeview Pkwy., Rowlett, TX 75088
  • 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:
    • CVS Pharmacy, 1413 Oates Drive, Mesquite, TX 75043
    • CVS Pharmacy, 3133 East Lemmon Avenue, Dallas, TX 75204
    • CVS Pharmacy, 4203 South Carrier Parkway, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
    • CVS Pharmacy, 5702 Lavon Drive, Garland, TX 75040
  • 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 at CVS.com

Methodist Health System in-person testing system:

  • Location: 3155 W Wheatland Road, Dallas, TX 75237
  • Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9 am to 1 pm by appointment only
  • Requirements: Patients must take a pre-screening test to qualify for a COVID-19 test. To be screened for an appointment, call 214-933-8811
  • For more information, visit Methodist Health System.

Baylor Scott & White no-cost, drive-thru testing site:

  • Location: 4500 Spring Ave, Dallas, TX 75210. 
  • Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9am to 1pm appointment only.
  • Requirements: Patients must be screened in order to schedule an appointment. To be screened for an appointment, call 214-933-8811
  • For more information or to make an appointment visit the Baylor Scott & White website.
Flyer2

Kroger, no-cost drive-thru testing site:

  • City Square Parking Lot, 1610 Malcom X Blvd., Dallas, TX 75226
  • Hours of Operation: Saturday and Monday: 8:30AM — 2:30PM, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 1:00PM – 5:00PM
  • Requirements: Residents must complete a virtual pre-screening to determine if they qualify for a test. If they qualify then an email confirmation will be sent with instructions regarding the appointment. Residents must complete their paperwork before they go to their test appointment.
  • To register for a Kroger COVID-19 test, click here.

Dallas County added two walk-up testing locations this week.

  • The new walk-up sites will be open daily 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Saturday, June 20 
  • RedBird Mall Westmoreland Park; 7222 S. Westmoreland Road, Dallas 75237 
  • Inspired Vision Compassion Center, 2019 N. Masters Drive, Dallas 75217

In this Newsletter

Federal Information:

  • Supporting DACA Recipients
  • Healthcare
  • Family Resources
  • Resources for Pet Owners
  • Federal Employment Resources
  • Tax Preparation Assistance

State Information:

  • Governor's Orders
  • Water-park Safety
  • DPS Re-Opening and Safety Measures
  • Dining Safely
  • State Employment Resources

Local Information:

  • Community Building
  • Education
  • Employment Resources
  • Food
  • Food for Families with Students
  • Health
  • Housing
  • Small Business Support
  • Ways for Residents to Help During COVID-19

Federal Information

Supporting DACA Recipients

City of Dallas officials and the Dallas Independent School District release a joint statement in response to the Supreme Court's ruling.

  • To view the joint statement visit this link. 

This week's Supreme Court victory for Dreamer's and DACA recipients allows for the continuation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. On the heels of this announcement, various organizations are continuing their legal support services for DACA recipients.


Substance Abuse and COVID-19

The National Institute on Drug Abuse has created a resource page and FAQs for residents about the how COIVD-19 impacts people with substance abuse issues.


Family Resources

Prevent Child Abuse America has created a web page with tip and advice for families to maintain a healthy relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Guides and resources include staying connected with family from afar, keeping in touch with or learning new cultures, being an engaged family, and many more.


Flyer3

Resources for Pet Owners

 

The COVID-19 crisis has created a great burden for pet owners and their access to properly care for their pets. There are a few organizations that have put together guides and initiatives to help pet owners properly take care of their pets.

  • The Human Society has created a resource webpage on how to care or make a care plan for a resident’s pet, state-level resources, and how to maintain a home with a pet during COVID-19. For more information, visit their website.
  • American Veterinary Association has a list of resources on how to take care of animals during COVID-19.

Federal Employment Resources

USAJOBS has devised a database showing opportunities from the Federal Government who is hiring across a wide range of career fields to help respond to the COVID-19 national emergency. The database gives individuals the opportunity to filter through the results and find opportunities that meets their needs.

  • Click here to find out more.

The US Department of Labor has resources to help workers and employers prepare for the COVID-19 virus (also known as novel coronavirus).

  • Follow this link to find more information.

The National Retail Federation has created a database displaying job opportunities for workers displaces by COVID-19.

  • Visit their website to find opportunities near you.

The US Small Business Administrationhas created a small business guidance and loan resources information page. Health and government officials are working together to maintain the safety, security, and health of the American people. Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep their employees, customers, and themselves healthy.

  • To access those resources please follow this link.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act creates a variety of programs to aid small businesses. A good summary of these options can be found here and a simple flow chart here. Key components include:

  • The Payroll Protection Program (PPP), which would provide a portion of its financing as a forgivable loan, is available through 7(a) lenders. Please contact your existing lender for details. The nation's top 7(a) lenders can be found here. The deadline for applying is June 30, 2020. Read more here.

Tax Preparation Assistance

The Free Tax Prep program provides free tax preparation services that help families maximize tax refunds and create a foundation for savings. In-person services are available at over 50 North Texas locations for households earning below $58,000.

  • Online services are available at MyFreeTaxes.com for households earning below $66,000.

The Dallas Community Tax Centers are now offering virtual tax preparation. Clients will be able to upload all tax documents into a secure server so that certified tax preparers can complete their taxes.

  • For more information on eligibility requirements and to access virtual tax preparation resources follow this link.

State Information

Governor Abbott Announces Expanded Testing to Underserved Communities

On June 8th, Governor Greg Abbott announces that the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) will be coordinating with local officials, public health officials, and emergency management offices in cities across the state to identify and rapidly expand COVID-19 testing in underserved and minority communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the virus.


COVID-19 Safety for Water-parks 

The Texas Department of State Health Services has compiled a list of resources to inform residents about measures the state is taking to ensure that public swimming spaces and waterparks are safe for families to enjoy this summer. Additionally, the CDC recommends that individuals should stay at least 6 feet away from people you don’t live with and wear cloth face covers when not in the water.

  • For more information follow this link.

Texas DPS Re-Opening and Safety Precautions

The Texas Department of Public Safety will be reopening its doors by appointments only. The Department is limiting services to help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

  • For a comprehensive list of those services or to make an appointment, visit the DPS website.

Dining Safely During COVID-19

Per the Governor’s orders starting June 12th, restaurants are allowed to expand their occupancy levels to 75%. Before residents make the decision to dine out again.

  • This article offers a checklist for patrons to follow if they decide to dine-out.
Flyer8

State Employment Resources

The Texas Workforce Commission’s website allows Texans to Browse job openings, create a résumé and apply for jobs. Find job search tips and assistance with writing résumé and cover letters, interviewing, negotiating salaries and evaluating job offers.

  • Visit their website for more information.

Local Information

Community Building

  • The City of Dallas COVID-19 Health and Healthcare Access Czar, Dr. Kelvin Baggett wrote a column for the Dallas Morning News encouraging residents to continue practicing social distancing and wear face coverings in public.
    • To access the complete article, follow this link.
  • Dallas Truth Racial Healing and Transformation is providing access to a recording of their community event, The History of Race in Dallas. The presentation is a Facebook LIVE presentation about the racial history of Dallas, including how past pandemics and economic downturns affected Dallas and its communities of color. The organization, Dallas TRHT, is a comprehensive, national and community-based process to plan for and bring about transformational and sustainable change, and to address the historic and contemporary effects of racism.
    • To access this recording go to the Dallas Truth Racial Healing and Transformation website. 
  • The Community Resources Hub provides an easy-to-use virtual platform for residents to find low-cost or free services in their area. The Community Resource Hub can be accessed through https://communityresources.dallascityhall.com/.
    • For more information please contact them at 214.671.5087.
  • Refugee Services of Texas’ is hosting a virtual World Refugee Day event, where you can view live performances from local Texas refugee artists and learn about the refugee experience through an interactive simulation. They will showcase language lessons, a cooking lesson, and two authors will even debut their refugee-related books online with us!
    • For a full list of online activities and to register for the event, check out the website here.
WRD
  • New American Economy (NAE)  is celebrating World Refugee Day on Monday, June 22 at 7pm ET/4pm PT by hosting a virtual book tour event with Vietnamese refugee Phuc Tran, whose new memoir, Sigh, Gone, focuses on the displacement and assimilation of a young man during the fall of Saigon. Tran’s writing lays bare both the heartbreaking and hilarious components of his journey.

    • Please click here and RSVP to join us Monday, June 22 at 7pm ET/4pm PT for this reading and conversation to celebrate World Refugee Day.
  • Cedar Crest COVID-19 Resources Center is also offering support services for those impacted by COVID-19. Resources include free masks, meals to go, free internet, job search support, telehealth and stress management classes.
    • Reservations are preferred by calling 972-755-9475.
  • New American Economy has analyzed the role of Hispanic Americans during this pandemic especially in four key industries. Hispanics make up 13.0% of overall healthcare workers with an especially high concentration in Texas. In the U.S. food supply, one in four workers in the food supply chain are Hispanic Americans. In the education sector, there are a little over 2 million Hispanic workers with a concentration in K-12 education. The biomedical industry has over 10% Hispanics in each major biomedical field. Hispanic-Americans continue supporting the fight against the pandemic through their work in health care and other essential services. 
    • To read the full study, click the link here

Education

  • The Dallas Public Library started its new Library to Go curbside pickup of materials on June 9. For the past two weeks staff have been pulling requested items for customers and getting them ready for pick up. It's a simple process to check out books, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks, just log on to dallaslibrary.org, find your title, put it on request and they’ll notify you when it is ready for pick up. Residents can call or email to reserve a time slot, then drive up and Library staff will bring it out to you through curbside pick-up.
    • For more information regarding participating locations or any other questions, follow this link or call 214.670.7809.
  • Aprendamos con Ms. Ramos is a dual-language gifted and talented educator that hosts live, bilingual readings every Wednesday at 12:30 CST.
    • Follow this link for more information about the books your little ones can enjoy every Wednesday.
  • United Way Denton has compiled a list for college students that have been greatly impacted by COVID-19. The list has financial assistance resources and important information on student loans.
    • Follow this link to access the resources.
  • The Dallas Public Library Adult Learning Unit is offering online class meetings for English Language Learning and GED classes in Spanish. GED study in English will be available in a self-guided online study program. No library card or residency is required.
  • Netflix is providing a limited amount of their educational programming on YouTube for free, such as episodes from the nature series Our Planet and other single-serving documentaries on short subjects.
    • To access the full playlist, click the link here.
  • CONTRA-TIEMPO is a Los Angeles-based dance company creating a new physical, visual, and sonic vocabulary that collages Salsa, Afro-Cuban, hip-hop, and contemporary dance with theater, text, and original music to bring dynamic experiences to the concert stage. They are hosting dance classes every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, classes are free and online.
    • If you are interested in learning more about CONTRA-TIEMPO and their online classes, please click this link.
  • The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum’s Education Team invites you this summer to their virtual Camp Upstander! Students from ages 6-10 will participate in daily activities built around themes such as inspiring Upstander behavior, building community, and kindness. Each week will have a different theme and materials for students to engage with from home.
    • To learn more about the virtual summer camp or register, click this link.
Flyer4

Employment

  • Say Yes to Dallas and the Dallas Regional Chamber, with partners across North Texas, are connecting workers displaced by the COVID-19 outbreak. Several organizations are hiring large numbers of employees.
    • Follow this link to find openings in essential industries that have ramped up hiring locally.

Food

  • The North Texas Food Bank has launched a food bank locator with fellow partner agencies to help Texans find food banks near them. Visit the locator and enter your zip code for a food bank near you.
    • The North Texas Food Bank has a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assistance program run by the Social Services Assistance Navigators. This program will help residents fill out and complete their SNAP applications. For more information email snap@ntfb.org.
  • The Salvation Army is committed to helping provide meals to families across North Texas during this crisis. They have 13 locations across the metroplex ranging from mobile food pantries and service centers.
    • If you find yourself in need of food assistance, please click this link to find the closest center to you and check out their hours of operation.
  • Pleasant Grove Food Pantry is a local drive-through food pantry helping residents from the 75217, 75227, and 75253 zip codes receive prepacked food boxes to help feed their families. 
    • Location: 1331 Baywood Street, Dallas, TX 75217
    • Hours: 9:30am-12:30pm (or until out of prepacked food boxes, whichever comes first)
    • Requirements: Only serves zip codes 75217, 75227, and 75253
    • For more information visit their website or call 214.505.1928. 
  • North Dallas Shared Ministries has an emergency food and toiletries pantry. Applicants must meet their eligibility requirements and may receive food eight times in twelve months. Clients must live within their service area and must provide photo ID and proof of address. 
    • Location: 2875 Merrell Road Dallas, TX 75229
    • Hours: 9am, 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month
    • Requirements: Clients must live within their service area to receive food more than once, photo ID, and proof of address.
    • For more information on eligibility requirements please visit their website.
  • Minnie’s Food Pantry is a non-profit organization that provides healthy meals, educational resources and red-carpet treatment to every person that they serve. For many, Minnie’s Food Pantry is the first line of defense so a person can have a meal. They are proud to serve every zip code and all those in need, regardless of geographic boundaries, gender, race or religion.
    • Location: 661 18th Street Plano, Texas 75074
    • Hours of Operation: 8:30am-11:30am Wednesday-Saturday, closed every 5th Saturday
    • Requirements: Provide one acceptable form of identification, one acceptable form of verification, and a vehicle to pick up food.
    • For more information call 972.596.0253 or follow this link.
Flyer7

Food for Families with Students

  • The Texas Department of Agriculture has linked a school meal finder on their website in order to allow families to find the closest healthy, no-cost meals for your students.
    • Click this link, enter your address and find the nearest pick-up location to you and their hours of operation.
  • The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides free, nutritious meals to children who might otherwise go hungry when the school year has ended or is closed. The meals are usually provided along with educational or recreational activities. The program reimburses contractors who serve meals that meet certain nutritional standards to children.
    • Follow this link to fill out a survey to ensure that you are eligible for the Summer Food Service Program.
  • The Dallas Independent School District in association with School Leadership, Food & Child Nutrition Services is committed to offering meal service at no cost while Dallas ISD remains closed. Meal service will continue through the summer break. Meals will be served at strategic locations throughout the district.
    • Please visit Dallas ISD’s website for more information.

Health

  • Window AC Units for Seniors, now thru end of July. The Senior Source will distribute window AC units to clients who meet the following criteria: live in Dallas County, age 60 or above, and have no working AC unit.
  • Parkland Hospital has created a community calendar that helps residents find local health fairs that are occurring in the Dallas metroplex, each specializing in different healthcare fields.
    • If you are interested in finding out more about the health fairs, click this link to be taken to the community calendar.
  • The North Texas Behavioral Health Authority has created a 24/7 COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line for residents in the greater Dallas area to call in if they are experiencing stress and anxiety related to this time of crisis.
    • Residents can call for support in both English and Spanish, at (833) 251-7544.

Housing

  • The Department of Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization is proud to announce its newest program for Dallas residents – The Title and Property Assistance Program (TAPA). The TAPA pilot program provides legal assistance to low-to-moderate income families in specific areas on a variety of title and property issues. TAPA strives to help establish marketable title, to encourage neighborhood stability, and enable homeowners to become eligible for various funding to invest in their homes. The TAPA program is designed to provide legal aid to eligible residents to prevent foreclosures & tax penalties by subsidizing legal costs.
    • The pilot program will focus on specific areas in the Southern Sector who have a household income less than or equal to 120 percent of the Dallas Area Median Income. Preference to be given to families in eligible geographical areas who have been denied funding for the City’s Housing programs due to lack of ownership clarity. HERE More info regarding eligible areas of the city are HERE, and the TAPA Program, HERE. The program is open now, you can apply by visiting the website https://www.texastapa.com/ , or calling 469-708-0022.
Flyer5
  • The Dallas City Council approved the COVID Landlord-Tenant Notice Ordinance in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The ordinance requires a pre-notice prior to issuing a notice to vacate. The pre-notice, titled “COVID Notice of Possible Eviction” allows tenants 21 days to provide evidence of COVID related financial hardship. Once evidence is provided to the landlord, the tenant has 60 days from the original date of COVID Notice receipt to enter into a repayment plan or apply for rental assistance. The COVID Notice of Eviction ordinance takes effect immediately.
    • **Please Note: The COVID Notice of Eviction Ordinance does NOT waive rent payment obligations.
    • For more information on the COVID Notice of Eviction Ordinance and Resources visit: COVID-19 Eviction Facts
    • For frequently asked questions visit: FAQs
    • For questions or concerns, please contact the Office of Fair Housing and Human Rights at 214-670-FAIR (3247).
  • Eviction Assistance
    • North Texas Fair Housing Center - 469-941-0375 or northtexasfairhousing.org
    • The Housing Crisis Center - 214-828-4244 or org
    • Legal Aid of North Texas - 214-748-1234 or lanwt.org
    • Texas Tenants’ Union - 214-823-2733 or org
    • Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center Social Services - 214-670-8416
    • West Dallas Multipurpose Center Social Services - 214-670-6530
    • Local Dallas lawyers are volunteering to answer renter questions for free.
    • CALL 211 or visit 211texas.org
      • Give zip code for a list of local financial and in-kind resources available in your area
    • DALLAS HOUSING AUTHORITY Please immediately report any loss of income in order to reduce your portion of rent
  • The North Texas Behavioral Health Authority is taking applications for COVID-19 tenant-based rental assistance.

Small Business Support

  • Its National Take Out Night so order from your favorite Black or immigrant-owned or heritage food focused restaurant and share!
Flyer6
  • DreamSpring is committed to identifying every opportunity to support you and your business through this challenging time. Visit their website to find information on COVID-19 payment relief, resources for small businesses impacted by the pandemic, and paycheck protection programs.
    • For questions or support you can call their Client Ambassador team Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm at 800.508.7624.
    • Visit their website for more information. 
  • LiftFund is ready to support small business during this time. They’ve partnered with communities across our footprint to lift small businesses while we battle the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • To find different resources to assist your small business please visit this link.
  • PeopleFund has opportunities for quick turnaround, disaster assistance loans to help Texan entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • To find more information about loan assistance please follow this link.
  • The Dallas Economic Development Office is closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on the small business community, working closely with their local, state and federal partners.
    • Please click this link in order to find more information regarding federal loan assistance and third-party grants and loans.
  • Dallas Black Chamber and Regional Chamber of Commerce provides resources to assist businesses impacted negatively by COVID-19. Funds remain from federal and state programs to connect displaced workers to employment, or that help with applications or paperwork.
    • To find more information follows this link.
  • The City of Dallas along with PeopleFund, and the US Small Business Administration all led a webinar on loan forgiveness for small business. Here are some key takeaways:  
    •  Small businesses must apply for PPP assistance by June 30th
    • There is over $120 billion left, so APPLY!
    • Here is the link for the PPP website. 

Ways for Residents to Help During COVID-19

  • As we continue with the third month of quarantine Dallas residents are itching to lend a helping hand to those in need. Here is a list of local organizations that are asking for Dallas area volunteers:
    • Dallas 101 has created a list of organizations accepting volunteers to help during the OCVID-19 crisis.
    • The Dallas City Hall website has a list of resources that are asking for donations and volunteers.
  • The Communities Foundation in Texas is launching the Get Shift Done for North Texas Initiative which raises money to provide wages to hourly workers who then serve shifts at local nonprofits.
    • Learn more about the initiative and how to make a donation here.
  • The Be My Eyes App pairs the blind and visually impaired with volunteers via a video call in order to assist with everyday tasks (think reading a recipe on the back of a box or selecting a particular article of clothing from the closet). Now more than ever, there is a need to maintain person-to-person connection in any (safe) way that we can.
    • If you’re interested in becoming a part of the Be My Eyes community, follow this link.