The City of Dallas Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) is set to mark National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week from November 17-23. During this time, meant to bring homelessness issues to the forefront, the OHS aims to spur community action to support those in need. As reported by the City of Dallas, the kick-off to this vital week starts with a celebration at Smoky Rose on November 18, beginning at 6 PM.
According to the city's announcement, the first anniversary of the OHS Friends Group, which will be commemorated during the event, has gathered significant community interest. Along with highlighting a year's worth of effort, the occasion serves as the starting point for a citywide coat drive. Attendees, welcomed by live music and free refreshments, are encouraged to contribute new or gently used coats. Witnessing the group's evolution, Councilmember Paula Blackmon said, "It has been exciting to witness the growth and evolution of the Friends Group since it was founded last year." This week's goal is " to raise awareness of homelessness through volunteerism, donation and education."
City employees are drawing their battle lines in a friendly face-off to see who can donate the most winter hats and gloves as part of OHS's Winter Warmth Charity Challenge. Winning departments in this first-of-its-kind drive will be recognized by Interim City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, who noted in her statement the importance of responsible community giving, especially during the harsh winter months. "I want to thank the homeless services providers whose mission it is to serve residents experiencing homelessness," Ms. Bizor Tolbert stated, per the city's press release.
