COVID-19

Dallas Bethlehem Center

COVID-19

As a beacon in the South Dallas community for many decades, the Dallas Bethlehem Center was prepared to act quickly to meet the needs of the community when COVID-19 struck. While still in the midst of the crisis, the community knows it can turn to DBC to provide fresh food, a friendly face, and to listen to what the neighbors need. DBC continues to be known as integral to the fabric of South Dallas. Here are some of the actions it is currently taking:

Food

  • Our weekly Thursday Neighborhood Market effort has doubled – now with drive ups and walk ups! It is open to anyone from 11:30 – 2 pm while supplies last
  • We’ve begun a new Friday hot meals program. This is also open to anyone from 3 – 4 pm

Education

  • Virtual learning began in March with our 0-3 years ChildCareGroup program
  • We have plans to reopen in August per DISD Guidelines

New Community Programs

  • Voter Registration was executed in coordination with food distribution efforts
  • We’ve been able to hire from the community to ramp up food distribution given foundation & donor support

How You Can Help

  • Community Leaders, Elected Officials and Media can help drive awareness of what is happening in South Dallas:
    • Help showcase what DBC is doing so that we can reach more awareness with more of our neighbors
    • Highlight the issues and opportunities of the neighborhood. For example, the lack of internet access affects virtual learning
      and exacerbates the opportunity gap.
    • Examples: Community leaders like Adam Bazaldua, City Council Member of District 7, came and shot a Facebook Live video during our Thursdays Neighborhood Market event. Dr. Ester Davis conducted an interview with our Executive Director, enabling DBC’s message to reach her audience.
  • Community Members, Volunteers and Donors can help us (while taking safety precautions) by:
    • Making financial donations on DBC’s website: www.dallasbethlehemcenter.org
    • Donating in kind goods like diapers, fresh groceries, and Walmart or Visa gift cards. These can help our residents pay rent and phone bills. We are compiling a list of items needed now. Please contact us ahead of coming in so that we can have someone on site to receive your donation.

While COVID-19 has spotlighted the inequities our neighbors in South Dallas have faced for decades, we are seeing the  community step up its efforts to help overcome them. DBC continues to be a trusted partner for platforms and  programs to come in and organize efforts for the highest impact.

“I drove to DBC all the way from Irving because I heard DBC treats everyone with dignity & respect, and I was not disappointed. While I was leaving, someone tapped my window and told me to have a great day, it’s the little things. DBC shows a lot of humanity.”

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