Dallas ISD is urging community members to support the more than 3,900 district students experiencing homelessness during National Homeless Youth Awareness Month this November.
The district’s call for help underscores a growing crisis affecting thousands of local families who struggle with housing instability while trying to support their children’s education.
The Dallas ISD Homeless Education Program announced four specific ways residents can assist struggling students. These include purchasing items from an Amazon wishlist, donating food to school pantries, supporting drop-in centers, and volunteering with local organizations.
Drop-in centers at select middle and high schools provide homeless students with essential supplies and support. These spaces offer a wide range of items, including backpacks, uniforms, hygiene products, and community service referrals.
The program trains staff to identify at-risk students and connects families with critical resources. Officials emphasize that homeless students deserve equal educational opportunities despite their challenging circumstances.
Food donations help stock school-based pantries that sustain students throughout the academic year. The district maintains that these pantries recognize that many homeless youth lack reliable access to meals.
Community members interested in helping can contact the Homeless Education Program at 972-749-5750. The program also accepts donation drop-offs by appointment through [email protected].
The initiative comes as youth homelessness continues to affect urban school districts nationwide. Dallas ISD’s efforts aim to bridge gaps that might otherwise derail students’ academic futures.