#HelpThemHome
G E T I N V O LV E D
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
COVID-19 REPORT
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
O
n one night this past January, Dallas had more than 4,400 individuals experiencing homelessness. But why should we care?
We should care because homelessness impacts not only its victims, but the entire community in which we work and live. Future generations will ask, “What did they do when our community was in need?” The answer should reflect the compassion and willingness of Dallas’ residents to address this issue that cannot, and should not, be ignored. Dallas solves problems, we don’t ignore them! Austin Street Center is part of the solution! For the past 36 years we’ve seen and continue to see miracles happen at Austin Street, and sometimes those miracles are the simple comforts that we often take for granted. More than just a shelter, we are a beacon of hope and a waypoint to the end of homelessness for hundreds annually. However, ending homelessness requires an extensive network of partnerships, thereby engaging medical and mental health clinics, food pantries, churches, volunteers, and other agencies to effectively meet the needs of the whole person.
Nancy K. Best
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AUSTIN STREET CENTER
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD S H E LT E R M I N I S T R I E S O F DA L L A S
G E T I N V O LV E D
Daniel Roby
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
solutions.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Austin Street Center is not a place of judgement – we are a place of meeting our clients where they are and serving the whole individual. It is our sincere end goal to place each person that arrives at our doors, into a home of their own. With proper resources and services, we can expand our reach and I hope you will join us in our mission of compassion and
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
I am proud to lead the Board of Directors and I cherish my role in ensuring that Austin Street Center remains a pillar of the Dallas community and a place of refuge for so many of our neighbors in need. Homelessness is a growing problem across the nation and it can happen in an instant. One job loss, one medical emergency, one natural disaster – so many things beyond our control can result in homelessness.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
On behalf of the men and women we serve, I encourage you to join us and I thank you for your partnership and support. Together, we will bring an end to homelessness, one person at a time.
ustin Street Center works tirelessly to change lives of our most vulnerable citizens, thanks to a dedicated tight-knit community of volunteers, donors, team members, and partners. Because of friends like you, who has made Austin Street’s mission your priority, over the past year, we were able to place 214 clients into permanent places to call home – with the majority placed without subsidy.
COVID-19 REPORT
As a community dedicated to providing for our neighbors in need and investing in the future, it is the personal responsibility of each one of us to look around and ask ourselves how we can help. We all recognize that longterm change will take time. Working together to create an ecosystem that supports homeless individuals within our community is the starting point. Your support, through donations of your time, in-kind items, and/ or monetary gifts takes us steps closer to solving this issue. Further creating awareness of this issue with your government representatives and neighbors, are also huge steps to eradicating homelessness. The longer Dallas waits to dedicate the necessary resources, the harder it will become to address this growing need – especially given the recent economic fallout as experienced as result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A
O
n one night this past January, Dallas had more than 4,400 individuals experiencing homelessness. But why should we care?
We should care because homelessness impacts not only its victims, but the entire community in which we work and live. Future generations will ask, “What did they do when our community was in need?” The answer should reflect the compassion and willingness of Dallas’ residents to address this issue that cannot, and should not, be ignored. Dallas solves problems, we don’t ignore them! Austin Street Center is part of the solution! For the past 36 years we’ve seen and continue to see miracles happen at Austin Street, and sometimes those miracles are the simple comforts that we often take for granted. More than just a shelter, we are a beacon of hope and a waypoint to the end of homelessness for hundreds annually. However, ending homelessness requires an extensive network of partnerships, thereby engaging medical and mental health clinics, food pantries, churches, volunteers, and other agencies to effectively meet the needs of the whole person.
Nancy K. Best
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AUSTIN STREET CENTER
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD S H E LT E R M I N I S T R I E S O F DA L L A S
G E T I N V O LV E D
Daniel Roby
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
solutions.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Austin Street Center is not a place of judgement – we are a place of meeting our clients where they are and serving the whole individual. It is our sincere end goal to place each person that arrives at our doors, into a home of their own. With proper resources and services, we can expand our reach and I hope you will join us in our mission of compassion and
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
I am proud to lead the Board of Directors and I cherish my role in ensuring that Austin Street Center remains a pillar of the Dallas community and a place of refuge for so many of our neighbors in need. Homelessness is a growing problem across the nation and it can happen in an instant. One job loss, one medical emergency, one natural disaster – so many things beyond our control can result in homelessness.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
On behalf of the men and women we serve, I encourage you to join us and I thank you for your partnership and support. Together, we will bring an end to homelessness, one person at a time.
ustin Street Center works tirelessly to change lives of our most vulnerable citizens, thanks to a dedicated tight-knit community of volunteers, donors, team members, and partners. Because of friends like you, who has made Austin Street’s mission your priority, over the past year, we were able to place 214 clients into permanent places to call home – with the majority placed without subsidy.
COVID-19 REPORT
As a community dedicated to providing for our neighbors in need and investing in the future, it is the personal responsibility of each one of us to look around and ask ourselves how we can help. We all recognize that longterm change will take time. Working together to create an ecosystem that supports homeless individuals within our community is the starting point. Your support, through donations of your time, in-kind items, and/ or monetary gifts takes us steps closer to solving this issue. Further creating awareness of this issue with your government representatives and neighbors, are also huge steps to eradicating homelessness. The longer Dallas waits to dedicate the necessary resources, the harder it will become to address this growing need – especially given the recent economic fallout as experienced as result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A
COVID-19 REPORT
Austin Street was the first homeless service provider to contact the City of Dallas to make recommendations for response to the homeless community. As a result, we have not seen any positive COVID-19 cases within our shelter. We remain vigilant in protecting our clients and team members by:
Homeless individuals infected by COVID-19 are...
2X AS LIKELY
to be hospitalized than the general population.
2-4X AS LIKELY
to require critical care than the general population.
2-3X AS LIKELY
to die than the general population.
Suspending all group programs, while serving clients individually
Added a quarantine area for incoming clients
Providing secure outdoor space for clients
Following CDC guidance on spacing, which has shifted capacity from 391 to 242
Suspending all on-site volunteer activities, now with limited individualized opportunities
Implementing a five-tier Infectious Disease Prevention and Response Protocol*
Hiring a part-time EMT
G E T I N V O LV E D
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Includes education, monitoring, mask requirements, increased sanitation procedures, as well as the creation of a designated isolation space.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Source: U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Austin Street is plowing ahead to be better than ever in the midst of what looks to be an incredible crisis in the homeless community. We will rise to the occasion and serve the vulnerable better than ever before! With the closing of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center temporary shelter in August, shelter demand is at a premium and we intend on continually serving our community, thereby working to Help Them Home.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Austin Street Center has executed a new shelter model, now serving as a 24-hour shelter – essentially enhancing our individualized case management services, further doubling our day shelter services. Despite all these changes due to COVID-19, our focus remains the same, successfully housing more than 115 clients during this time and we will continue to do so, especially with our deployment of Dallas’ largest Rapid Rehousing Program to date.
COVID-19 REPORT
Nearly 1/3 of Austin Street Center’s clients qualify as “high-risk” from COVID-19 due to age and/or underlying health conditions.
Suspending our normal daily intake process
COVID-19 REPORT
Austin Street was the first homeless service provider to contact the City of Dallas to make recommendations for response to the homeless community. As a result, we have not seen any positive COVID-19 cases within our shelter. We remain vigilant in protecting our clients and team members by:
Homeless individuals infected by COVID-19 are...
2X AS LIKELY
to be hospitalized than the general population.
2-4X AS LIKELY
to require critical care than the general population.
2-3X AS LIKELY
to die than the general population.
Suspending all group programs, while serving clients individually
Added a quarantine area for incoming clients
Providing secure outdoor space for clients
Following CDC guidance on spacing, which has shifted capacity from 391 to 242
Suspending all on-site volunteer activities, now with limited individualized opportunities
Implementing a five-tier Infectious Disease Prevention and Response Protocol*
Hiring a part-time EMT
G E T I N V O LV E D
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Includes education, monitoring, mask requirements, increased sanitation procedures, as well as the creation of a designated isolation space.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Source: U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Austin Street is plowing ahead to be better than ever in the midst of what looks to be an incredible crisis in the homeless community. We will rise to the occasion and serve the vulnerable better than ever before! With the closing of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center temporary shelter in August, shelter demand is at a premium and we intend on continually serving our community, thereby working to Help Them Home.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Austin Street Center has executed a new shelter model, now serving as a 24-hour shelter – essentially enhancing our individualized case management services, further doubling our day shelter services. Despite all these changes due to COVID-19, our focus remains the same, successfully housing more than 115 clients during this time and we will continue to do so, especially with our deployment of Dallas’ largest Rapid Rehousing Program to date.
COVID-19 REPORT
Nearly 1/3 of Austin Street Center’s clients qualify as “high-risk” from COVID-19 due to age and/or underlying health conditions.
Suspending our normal daily intake process
Although volunteers could not physically be onsite, our meal service teams continuously provided meals for 400, 350, and eventually 250 clients.
42,400 Total meals provided
COVID-19 Report:
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
22,500 Meals provided in April
7,500 Snacks provided in April
23,250 Meals provided in May
7,750 Snacks provided in May
22,500 Meals provided in June
5,250 Snacks provided in June
Group Spotlight (Through June 2020) Highland Park United Methodist Church provided an additional 69 meals from March to June.
Christ Church Irving provided 5 lunches from April to June. Saint Michael & All Angels provided 6 additional breakfasts from March to June. Emporium Pies provided 350 slices of pie to serve during snack time on March 23.
Texas de Brazil provided a steak, roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cheesecake to 250 clients on May 11. Good Shepherd Episcopal School provided 3 lunches in June. Catering Teams to Spotlight: Preston Hollow Catering, Sonny Bryan’s Catering, G Texas Catering, Tejano Brothers, and Alonti Catering.
G E T I N V O LV E D
Antioch Dallas Life Groups sponsored 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches from May to June.
Munger Place provided 3 breakfasts in April.
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
On July 6th, Austin Street Center welcomed back our Core Volunteers and Meal Service teams. Core Volunteers commit their time to serve on a weekly basis. Meal Service teams can bring up to four volunteers to help prepare, pre-plate, serve a meal to 250 clients. Our clients and staff are thankful for the extra help. Austin Street is grateful for all volunteers do and hope to see you soon!
Bonton Farms sponsored 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
Hunt Consolidated, Inc. provided box lunches on April 3.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
reevaluate volunteers coming back two weeks later. Little did we know, Austin Street would operate with no volunteers, relying on our meal service teams for almost four months! These teams generously contributed in order to meet the basic needs of our clients.
Highland Park Presbyterian Church provided an additional 20 breakfasts and lunches from March to June.
Amazing Grace.Life (Amy Simmons Crafton) sponsored dinner on March 30.
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Due to COVID-19, Austin Street Center had a significant change in the daily operations. On March 13th, our team made the difficult decision to suspend volunteer opportunities until further notice. We anticipated to
6,300 Snacks provided in March
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Each of you play a major role in helping end homelessness in North Texas. Volunteers are essential, and together we have the privilege to serve many men and women who reside in our facility each day.
18,900 Meals provided in March
COVID-19 REPORT
On behalf of the Austin Street Center staff and Board of Trustees, we want to thank each of you for your continued love and support during these unprecedented times.
26,550 Total snacks provided
Although volunteers could not physically be onsite, our meal service teams continuously provided meals for 400, 350, and eventually 250 clients.
42,400 Total meals provided
COVID-19 Report:
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
22,500 Meals provided in April
7,500 Snacks provided in April
23,250 Meals provided in May
7,750 Snacks provided in May
22,500 Meals provided in June
5,250 Snacks provided in June
Group Spotlight (Through June 2020) Highland Park United Methodist Church provided an additional 69 meals from March to June.
Christ Church Irving provided 5 lunches from April to June. Saint Michael & All Angels provided 6 additional breakfasts from March to June. Emporium Pies provided 350 slices of pie to serve during snack time on March 23.
Texas de Brazil provided a steak, roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cheesecake to 250 clients on May 11. Good Shepherd Episcopal School provided 3 lunches in June. Catering Teams to Spotlight: Preston Hollow Catering, Sonny Bryan’s Catering, G Texas Catering, Tejano Brothers, and Alonti Catering.
G E T I N V O LV E D
Antioch Dallas Life Groups sponsored 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches from May to June.
Munger Place provided 3 breakfasts in April.
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
On July 6th, Austin Street Center welcomed back our Core Volunteers and Meal Service teams. Core Volunteers commit their time to serve on a weekly basis. Meal Service teams can bring up to four volunteers to help prepare, pre-plate, serve a meal to 250 clients. Our clients and staff are thankful for the extra help. Austin Street is grateful for all volunteers do and hope to see you soon!
Bonton Farms sponsored 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
Hunt Consolidated, Inc. provided box lunches on April 3.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
reevaluate volunteers coming back two weeks later. Little did we know, Austin Street would operate with no volunteers, relying on our meal service teams for almost four months! These teams generously contributed in order to meet the basic needs of our clients.
Highland Park Presbyterian Church provided an additional 20 breakfasts and lunches from March to June.
Amazing Grace.Life (Amy Simmons Crafton) sponsored dinner on March 30.
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Due to COVID-19, Austin Street Center had a significant change in the daily operations. On March 13th, our team made the difficult decision to suspend volunteer opportunities until further notice. We anticipated to
6,300 Snacks provided in March
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Each of you play a major role in helping end homelessness in North Texas. Volunteers are essential, and together we have the privilege to serve many men and women who reside in our facility each day.
18,900 Meals provided in March
COVID-19 REPORT
On behalf of the Austin Street Center staff and Board of Trustees, we want to thank each of you for your continued love and support during these unprecedented times.
26,550 Total snacks provided
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE With so many Americans living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to make ends meet – one crisis can easily spiral into homelessness.
At Austin Street Center, we receive people in need from all walks of life. Most of us experience setbacks throughout the course of our lives, but many take for granted the cushion that a strong network of social support, such as family or friends, provides during a hard time. Lack of support often involves:
Being far from home, away from family
POVERTY
Divorce/breakup Depression/ Substance abuse
Death of loved one
Cannot sustain lifestyle on now single salary
Final expenses and/or medical bills pile up
Previously not in workforce
Cannot live in shared residence
SOCIAL SUPPORT
= HOMELESSNESS
Family/friends may be unable to assist due to their own financial hardship and/or medical/mental needs.
Loss of home
G E T I N V O LV E D
High medical bills
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Family/friends not in a position to assist*
Cannot afford bills
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Cannot work
Escape from domestic abuse
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Serious illness
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Not having any living relatives
Out of touch with family/friends due to domestic abuse
No longer caregiver, upon loved one’s passing
Loss of job
COVID-19 REPORT
CRISIS
COMMON CAUSES OF HOMELESSNESS
Lack of Social Support
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE With so many Americans living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to make ends meet – one crisis can easily spiral into homelessness.
At Austin Street Center, we receive people in need from all walks of life. Most of us experience setbacks throughout the course of our lives, but many take for granted the cushion that a strong network of social support, such as family or friends, provides during a hard time. Lack of support often involves:
Being far from home, away from family
POVERTY
Divorce/breakup Depression/ Substance abuse
Death of loved one
Cannot sustain lifestyle on now single salary
Final expenses and/or medical bills pile up
Previously not in workforce
Cannot live in shared residence
SOCIAL SUPPORT
= HOMELESSNESS
Family/friends may be unable to assist due to their own financial hardship and/or medical/mental needs.
Loss of home
G E T I N V O LV E D
High medical bills
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Family/friends not in a position to assist*
Cannot afford bills
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Cannot work
Escape from domestic abuse
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Serious illness
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Not having any living relatives
Out of touch with family/friends due to domestic abuse
No longer caregiver, upon loved one’s passing
Loss of job
COVID-19 REPORT
CRISIS
COMMON CAUSES OF HOMELESSNESS
Lack of Social Support
2019 IN REVIEW
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Mission: Austin Street Center provides safe shelter and meets the basic needs of the most vulnerable homeless.
20TH ANNUAL
Services Shelter/basic needs
Case management
Housing navigation/placement
Mental/medical health care
Education & Employment (E ) Resource Center 2
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS LUNCHEON V I R T U A L E V E N T | September 25,2020
2019 Impact
Austin Street’s annual casual cocktail party and silent auction event that features countless vacation getaways. 12% Individuals
7%
3%
17% Fundraising
Service organizations
16% Foundations 3%
Night with Norm (~300 Attendeess | $715,371 Gross profit)
Administration
76% Programs
Corporations
27% Government grants 37% Special events
Featuring
LESLIE ODOM JR.
An intimate, fun and casual dinner experience that features the stories of acclaimed sports figures, hosted by Dallas’ sports radio legend, Norm Hitzges.
G E T I N V O LV E D
Expenses:
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
No Place Like Home (300+ Attendees | $99,729 Gross profit)
Financial Information Revenue:
We are proud to have created a legacy award for one of Austin Street Center’s biggest supporters and fundraisers, Dallas radio legend Norm Hitzges. This inaugural award was presented to its namesake at the 19th Annual Humble Beginning Luncheon which celebrated Austin Street Center’s 35th Anniversary as a way to commemorate his legacy of care and dedication to our cause.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
3,600 Bus passes shared
Sponsorhips available
Creation of the Norm Hitzges Distinguished Service Award
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
214 Housing placements
5,700 Case management sessions
Our Luncheon Chairs, Keana Meyer and Gina Landry, and other Host Committee members kicked off the Luncheon season by serving lunch to over 100 clients.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
123 Job placements
Host Committee Day of Service
COVID-19 REPORT
2,552 Clients served
$45 General Ticket | $125 VIP Ticket
Humble Beginnings (660 Attendeess | $377,996 Gross profit)
2019 IN REVIEW
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Mission: Austin Street Center provides safe shelter and meets the basic needs of the most vulnerable homeless.
20TH ANNUAL
Services Shelter/basic needs
Case management
Housing navigation/placement
Mental/medical health care
Education & Employment (E ) Resource Center 2
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS LUNCHEON V I R T U A L E V E N T | September 25,2020
2019 Impact
Austin Street’s annual casual cocktail party and silent auction event that features countless vacation getaways. 12% Individuals
7%
3%
17% Fundraising
Service organizations
16% Foundations 3%
Night with Norm (~300 Attendeess | $715,371 Gross profit)
Administration
76% Programs
Corporations
27% Government grants 37% Special events
Featuring
LESLIE ODOM JR.
An intimate, fun and casual dinner experience that features the stories of acclaimed sports figures, hosted by Dallas’ sports radio legend, Norm Hitzges.
G E T I N V O LV E D
Expenses:
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
No Place Like Home (300+ Attendees | $99,729 Gross profit)
Financial Information Revenue:
We are proud to have created a legacy award for one of Austin Street Center’s biggest supporters and fundraisers, Dallas radio legend Norm Hitzges. This inaugural award was presented to its namesake at the 19th Annual Humble Beginning Luncheon which celebrated Austin Street Center’s 35th Anniversary as a way to commemorate his legacy of care and dedication to our cause.
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
3,600 Bus passes shared
Sponsorhips available
Creation of the Norm Hitzges Distinguished Service Award
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
214 Housing placements
5,700 Case management sessions
Our Luncheon Chairs, Keana Meyer and Gina Landry, and other Host Committee members kicked off the Luncheon season by serving lunch to over 100 clients.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
123 Job placements
Host Committee Day of Service
COVID-19 REPORT
2,552 Clients served
$45 General Ticket | $125 VIP Ticket
Humble Beginnings (660 Attendeess | $377,996 Gross profit)
Program Spotlight:
SISTERHOOD
CHAPLAIN & DIRECTOR OF THE SISTERHOOD
134 participants in the program
54 women
transitioned into housing
RESPONSIBILITIES & PROGRAM SPECIFICS Daily classes at 9-11am
Includes yoga, faith, financial empowerment, and healthy relationships
Assist in the New Hope Garden Receive counseling/case management
M
arva had worked almost a decade in home healthcare in Beaumont, Texas when Hurricane Harvey devastated the city in 2017, and her client later passed. Unsure of her next step, she decided to move to Dallas, where she gained employment as an overnight school custodian. Just after 18 months, Marva was laid off, when the school district opted to not renew their contract with her employer. With no income or family support, Marva founder herself homeless for the first time in her life. As she continued her quest to find employment, Marva lived on the streets and consistently rode the DART train throughout the day until services ended for the evening. She then wandered the city to find a resting spot for the night. One day in December 2018, she sought shelter at Austin Street Center, where she was able to then gain employment. Now with employment at DFW Airport, along with a home of her own, Marva’s homeless experience came to an end in September 2019. “All who stay at Austin Street Center land there for different reasons, but the staff motivates and provides us with the structure and ability to find resources to get back on our feet ... I am thankful that Austin Street gave me shelter and hope, when I didn't have any. I also have to thank Debbie Slaughter, my case manager, for her continued encouragement and support.”
Marva
G E T I N V O LV E D
Felicia Burns
served at a time
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
“Austin Street does not just want to put a band-aid on homelessness. We want to minimize recidivism. That’s why we get to the underlying causes.”
MARVA
42 women
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
FORMER SISTERHOOD PARTICIPANT
Client Story:
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Lori
serving our women
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
“Austin Street, I’d like to thank you for giving me a place to say off the streets, and for giving me the opportunity to join the Sisterhood and working with me to get my life back. It is appreciated more than words can describe.”
4 years
COVID-19 REPORT
The Sisterhood program at Austin Street Center was designed in January 2016 to engage, empower, equip, restore, and transform the lives of women who are experiencing homelessness and traumatic barriers, which include but are not limited to physical, emotional and/or mental abuse, sexual exploitation, substance abuse, and mental illness. In addition to providing safe shelter, meals, and basic necessities, the program also provides case management, therapy, counseling, employment assistance and financial empowerment as well as counseling to help clients address the deeper, underlying causes of homelessness. The Sisterhood, which can accept up to 42 qualified participants at a time, aims to meet each woman’s individual needs and create an intentional community of support to strengthen and develop her intent to live a more fulfilled and independent life.
2019 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
Program Spotlight:
SISTERHOOD
CHAPLAIN & DIRECTOR OF THE SISTERHOOD
134 participants in the program
54 women
transitioned into housing
RESPONSIBILITIES & PROGRAM SPECIFICS Daily classes at 9-11am
Includes yoga, faith, financial empowerment, and healthy relationships
Assist in the New Hope Garden Receive counseling/case management
M
arva had worked almost a decade in home healthcare in Beaumont, Texas when Hurricane Harvey devastated the city in 2017, and her client later passed. Unsure of her next step, she decided to move to Dallas, where she gained employment as an overnight school custodian. Just after 18 months, Marva was laid off, when the school district opted to not renew their contract with her employer. With no income or family support, Marva founder herself homeless for the first time in her life. As she continued her quest to find employment, Marva lived on the streets and consistently rode the DART train throughout the day until services ended for the evening. She then wandered the city to find a resting spot for the night. One day in December 2018, she sought shelter at Austin Street Center, where she was able to then gain employment. Now with employment at DFW Airport, along with a home of her own, Marva’s homeless experience came to an end in September 2019. “All who stay at Austin Street Center land there for different reasons, but the staff motivates and provides us with the structure and ability to find resources to get back on our feet ... I am thankful that Austin Street gave me shelter and hope, when I didn't have any. I also have to thank Debbie Slaughter, my case manager, for her continued encouragement and support.”
Marva
G E T I N V O LV E D
Felicia Burns
served at a time
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
“Austin Street does not just want to put a band-aid on homelessness. We want to minimize recidivism. That’s why we get to the underlying causes.”
MARVA
42 women
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
FORMER SISTERHOOD PARTICIPANT
Client Story:
WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Lori
serving our women
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
“Austin Street, I’d like to thank you for giving me a place to say off the streets, and for giving me the opportunity to join the Sisterhood and working with me to get my life back. It is appreciated more than words can describe.”
4 years
COVID-19 REPORT
The Sisterhood program at Austin Street Center was designed in January 2016 to engage, empower, equip, restore, and transform the lives of women who are experiencing homelessness and traumatic barriers, which include but are not limited to physical, emotional and/or mental abuse, sexual exploitation, substance abuse, and mental illness. In addition to providing safe shelter, meals, and basic necessities, the program also provides case management, therapy, counseling, employment assistance and financial empowerment as well as counseling to help clients address the deeper, underlying causes of homelessness. The Sisterhood, which can accept up to 42 qualified participants at a time, aims to meet each woman’s individual needs and create an intentional community of support to strengthen and develop her intent to live a more fulfilled and independent life.
2019 PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:
GET INVOLVED
2019 SUMMARY OF COMMUNIT Y SUPPORT:
Austin Street Center welcomes individuals and groups from churches, schools, businesses, and organizations throughout the year.
>5,000 volunteers
All group volunteer projects begin with a tour of the shelter and an overview of our mission. Given the recent challenges presented by COVID-19, coupled with recommended social distancing guidelines, we are now limiting group sizes.
62,800 hrs of service
Donation Drives
Volunteers with tech savvy skills can offer their time by serving in the Computer Lab. Many clients need assistance with computer skills, resume building, and applying for job opportunities. Assistance is needed Tuesday-Friday from 3pm to 6pm.
Clients at Austin Street Center are able to receive and check their mail daily. This opportunity is perfect for adult individuals who are detailed orientated and enjoy working one-on-one. We need volunteers to sort and pass out mail daily from 5pm to 7pm.
Groups looking for readily available opportunities are welcome to host off-site donation drives on behalf of Austin Street Center. For greatest impact, please contact us to determine what our urgent needs are at the time of your drive.
Welcome Center
Clothing Room
Meal Service
The Welcome Center serves as the central hub to provide direct client assistance, interact with the public, help direct other volunteers, and communicate closely with shelter staff. Responsibilities within the Welcome Center vary day by day and is perfect opportunity for those that enjoy multi-tasking and serving at the front desk. This administrative position is a fast paced, high energy, and perfect for anyone great at multitasking. Assistance is needed daily from 9am to 6pm.
On a daily basis, Austin Street Center receives donations of toiletries and new and gently used clothing. We need volunteers to sort and organize, as well as package new client clothing packs. This opportunity is great for all ages and groups of all sizes. Assistance is needed daily from 10am to 12pm.
Austin Street Center is committed to providing 750 meals (cumulative of breakfast, lunch and dinner) daily to our clients. Every meal is prepared off-site and served by volunteer groups from all over the Metroplex. Our meal service teams strive to provide a hot entrĂŠe, sides, dessert, and drinks each day. This opportunity is best for businesses, churches, and civic organizations.
4,223 toiletry items 18,798 articles of clothing
For more information about volunteering and donation drives, contact: LIBBY CARD Community & Donor Relations Manager libby.card@austinstreetcenter.org 214-295-9361
G E T I N V O LV E D
Mailroom
31,684 lbs. of food PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Computer Lab Support
$185,847 in-kind donations:
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Austin Street Center can accommodate a few larger groups each year for special projects, which have included painting, landscaping, organizing a group activity, and more. Representatives of groups looking for a special opportunity should contact us for a tour and discussion of scope and availability. WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Group Projects
Each afternoon, intake volunteers welcome new and recurring clients. Volunteers assist staff by assigning beds for the evening. This opportunity is recommended for adults who are interested in client engagement. Many volunteers learn names and faces of those we serve regularly. Assistance is needed daily from 2pm to 6pm.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Client Intake
Prospective individual volunteers must attend an Austin Street Center Orientation Tour, where they will see six different volunteer opportunities for all ages and group sizes. The hour-long tour is available every other Thursday at 12pm or 6pm. To sign up, visit austinstreet. galaxydigital.com. We look forward to seeing you soon!
COVID-19 REPORT
Orientation Tour
GET INVOLVED
2019 SUMMARY OF COMMUNIT Y SUPPORT:
Austin Street Center welcomes individuals and groups from churches, schools, businesses, and organizations throughout the year.
>5,000 volunteers
All group volunteer projects begin with a tour of the shelter and an overview of our mission. Given the recent challenges presented by COVID-19, coupled with recommended social distancing guidelines, we are now limiting group sizes.
62,800 hrs of service
Donation Drives
Volunteers with tech savvy skills can offer their time by serving in the Computer Lab. Many clients need assistance with computer skills, resume building, and applying for job opportunities. Assistance is needed Tuesday-Friday from 3pm to 6pm.
Clients at Austin Street Center are able to receive and check their mail daily. This opportunity is perfect for adult individuals who are detailed orientated and enjoy working one-on-one. We need volunteers to sort and pass out mail daily from 5pm to 7pm.
Groups looking for readily available opportunities are welcome to host off-site donation drives on behalf of Austin Street Center. For greatest impact, please contact us to determine what our urgent needs are at the time of your drive.
Welcome Center
Clothing Room
Meal Service
The Welcome Center serves as the central hub to provide direct client assistance, interact with the public, help direct other volunteers, and communicate closely with shelter staff. Responsibilities within the Welcome Center vary day by day and is perfect opportunity for those that enjoy multi-tasking and serving at the front desk. This administrative position is a fast paced, high energy, and perfect for anyone great at multitasking. Assistance is needed daily from 9am to 6pm.
On a daily basis, Austin Street Center receives donations of toiletries and new and gently used clothing. We need volunteers to sort and organize, as well as package new client clothing packs. This opportunity is great for all ages and groups of all sizes. Assistance is needed daily from 10am to 12pm.
Austin Street Center is committed to providing 750 meals (cumulative of breakfast, lunch and dinner) daily to our clients. Every meal is prepared off-site and served by volunteer groups from all over the Metroplex. Our meal service teams strive to provide a hot entrĂŠe, sides, dessert, and drinks each day. This opportunity is best for businesses, churches, and civic organizations.
4,223 toiletry items 18,798 articles of clothing
For more information about volunteering and donation drives, contact: LIBBY CARD Community & Donor Relations Manager libby.card@austinstreetcenter.org 214-295-9361
G E T I N V O LV E D
Mailroom
31,684 lbs. of food PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
Computer Lab Support
$185,847 in-kind donations:
ABOUT AUSTIN STREET CENTER
Austin Street Center can accommodate a few larger groups each year for special projects, which have included painting, landscaping, organizing a group activity, and more. Representatives of groups looking for a special opportunity should contact us for a tour and discussion of scope and availability. WHAT HOMELESSNESS LOOKS LIKE
Group Projects
Each afternoon, intake volunteers welcome new and recurring clients. Volunteers assist staff by assigning beds for the evening. This opportunity is recommended for adults who are interested in client engagement. Many volunteers learn names and faces of those we serve regularly. Assistance is needed daily from 2pm to 6pm.
MEAL SERVICE DURING PANDEMIC
Client Intake
Prospective individual volunteers must attend an Austin Street Center Orientation Tour, where they will see six different volunteer opportunities for all ages and group sizes. The hour-long tour is available every other Thursday at 12pm or 6pm. To sign up, visit austinstreet. galaxydigital.com. We look forward to seeing you soon!
COVID-19 REPORT
Orientation Tour
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT 2929 Hickory Street, Dallas, Texas 75226 P.O. Box 710729, Dallas, Texas 75371 214-428-4242 www.AustinStreet.org
Board of Directors
Executive Team
CHAIRMAN
VICE PRESIDENTS
Nancy K. Best
Kenneth Z. Altshuler
PRESIDENT
Dennis J. Grindinger S E C R E TA R Y
David M. Rosenberg
Megan D. Burkhart
CEO
Daniel Roby
Beth Ewing
S R . D I R E C T O R O F A D VA N C E M E N T
Joe R. Flores
Myrshem H. George, MBA
Julie P. Roger Nancy Ann Hunt
TREASURER
Ashlee Hunt Kleinert
Frank Mihalopoulos
Carolyn L. Miller Gail O. Turner
S R . D I R E C T O R O F O P E R AT I O N S
Sharmeene Hayes
SR. DIRECTOR OF CLIENT S O L U T I O N S & S T R AT E G Y
Dustin Perkins CHAPL AIN & DIRECTOR OF THE SISTERHOOD
Felecia Burns