Breaking the Cycle: Resources for National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

Published: 11-22-2024 | 3 MIN READ | Author: Prism Health North Texas

This week marks National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, a time to shed light on the growing crisis of housing insecurity and hunger affecting millions across the United States. In Dallas and Collin County alone, over 3,700 individuals are experiencing homelessness—a number that has risen significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic.

While efforts are underway to address this crisis, such as the recent approval of a multi-million-dollar housing plan by the Dallas City Council, long-term solutions require more than just funding. They demand sustained community support, innovative strategies, and collaboration across sectors.

For those facing hunger, homelessness, or domestic abuse, finding help can be overwhelming. Below is a list of Dallas-area homeless resources to help connect individuals and families to food, shelter, and support services.

Homeless Resources

Temporary Shelter & Housing Assistance

If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, reach out to the Homeless Crisis Help Line at 1-888-411-6802 or explore these resources:

  • The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center
    1818 Corsicana St, Dallas, TX 75201
    214-670-1100 | Visit Website
  • Dallas Life Foundation
    1100 Cadiz St, Dallas, TX 75215
    214-421-1380 | Visit Website
  • Austin Street Center
    2929 Hickory St, Dallas, TX 75226
    214-428-4242 | Visit Website
  • Union Gospel Mission Dallas
    3211 Irving Blvd, Dallas, TX 75247
    214-637-6117 | Visit Website
  • Housing Crisis Center
    4210 Junius St, Dallas, TX
    214-828-4244 | Visit Website
  • Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance (MDHA)
    972-638-5600 | Visit Website
  • Dallas County Emergency Housing Assistance
    214-819-1968 | Visit Website

Dallas Food Assistance

For those struggling with hunger, these organizations offer food and meals to those in need:

  • The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center
    1818 Corsicana St, Dallas, TX 75201
    214-670-1100 | Visit Website
  • Dallas Life Foundation
    1100 Cadiz St, Dallas, TX 75215
    214-421-1380 | Visit Website
  • SoupMobile Annex
    2490 Coombs St, Dallas, TX 75215
    214-655-6396 | Visit Website
  • Resource Center Food Pantry for people living with HIV/AIDS
    2701 Reagan St at Brown | Dallas, TX 75219
    214-528-0144| Visit Website

How Domestic Abuse and Human Trafficking Drive Homelessness

Domestic abuse and human trafficking are major contributors to homelessness, often forcing individuals to flee dangerous situations with little more than the clothes on their backs. Survivors of abuse may lose financial stability, housing security, and access to essential resources due to isolation and control by their abusers. Similarly, trafficking victims frequently endure exploitation that leaves them without safe housing options. These cycles of violence and instability create significant barriers to rebuilding their lives, making homelessness a critical issue intertwined with abuse and exploitation. Addressing these root causes is essential for creating pathways to safety and stability.

DFW Domestic Abuse Resources

No one should face abuse alone. Support is available 24/7 through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or these local resources:

  • Genesis Women’s Shelter
    4411 Lemmon Ave Ste 201, Dallas, TX 75219
    214-389-7700 | Visit Website
  • Hope’s Door New Beginning Center
    860 F Ave., Ste. 100, Plano, TX 75074
    972-276-0057 | Visit Website
  • Emily’s Place
    1121 E Spring Creek Pkwy, Plano, TX 75074
    972-424-7775 | Visit Website
  • WIN: Women in Need
    No address listed
    903-454-4357 | Visit Website
  • Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation
    1615 Dorchester Dr, Plano, TX 75075
    972-880-4192 | Visit Website

Note: The addresses listed here are for each agency’s administration building. The shelter addresses are kept secret to protect survivors for their abusers. Please call the hotlines to begin intake.

DFW Anti-Trafficking Shelters

If you or someone you know is experiencing human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733 to connect with resources, including these Dallas-area shelters dedicated to survivors of commercial sexual exploitation:

  • Mosaic Family Services, Inc.
    12225 Greenville Ave, Ste. 800, Dallas, TX 75243
    214-821-5393 | Visit Website
  • Rescue Her
    PO Box 869, Euless, TX 76039
    817-891-2093 | Visit Website
  • New Friends, New Life
    PO Box 192378, Dallas, TX 75219
    214-965-0935 | Visit Website
  • Treasured Vessels
    PO Box 2256, Frisco, TX 75034
    469-405-7148 | Visit Website

Note: The addresses listed here are for each agency’s mailing address. The shelter addresses are kept secret to protect survivors for their traffickers. Please call the hotlines to begin intake.

How PHNTX Supports Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

At Prism Health North Texas (PHNTX), we understand the connection between housing stability and overall health. That’s why we offer case management services to help individuals experiencing homelessness connect to essential resources, including medical care, housing, and mental health support.

Additionally, our Home Again team visits The Bridge, the temporary shelter mentioned above, upon request to provide health screenings, HIV and STI testing, and referrals to vital services. We are committed to helping individuals regain stability and prioritize their health.

Our Case Managers are Here to Help:

  • Find Safe and Affordable Housing
  • Locate Food Pantries and Nutrition Resources
  • Access Transportation Services for Medical Appointments and Daily Needs
  • Replace or Update IDs and Important Personal Documents
  • Connect with Affordable Dental and Oral Health Care Providers
  • Schedule Vision Screenings and Eyewear Services
  • Enroll in Substance Use Recovery and Treatment Programs
  • Apply for Health Insurance and Financial Aid for Medical Expenses

Additionally, our Home Again team visits The Bridge, the temporary shelter mentioned above, upon request to provide health screenings, HIV and STI testing, and referrals to vital services. We are committed to helping individuals regain stability and prioritize their health.

At PHNTX, we believe in breaking the cycle of homelessness and hunger through compassionate care and community-driven solutions. If you or someone you know needs support, visit our website to learn more about our case management services and how we can help you take the first steps toward a brighter future.

 

Prism Health North Texas headshot

Author: Prism Health North Texas

PHNTX is committed to providing healthcare for all North Texans in a non-judgmental and affirming environment. The organization strives to remove the barriers that prevent any individual from accessing quality healthcare. PHNTX stands for health equity, especially for marginalized populations including people living with HIV, LGBTQIA+, and ethnic minorities. Every individual has the right to affordable, accessible health care and the opportunity to attain their highest level of health.

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