Dallas Responds stands at the forefront of providing transitional housing and support services to immigrants and refugees in the United States.
OLUMC’s efforts go beyond practical support; we address the spiritual and emotional needs of refugees. Our approach of welcoming each individual with messages of safety, love, and acceptance is pivotal in their journey towards integration and stability.
Our volunteer leadership is a cornerstone of our efficiency, enabling us to maximize the impact of every dollar donated. Our community-based approach strengthens the social fabric by fostering inclusivity and understanding.
The changing political landscape, particularly around asylum-seeking laws, poses a significant challenge. We work tirelessly to educate the public on the legal aspects of seeking asylum and counteract misinformation.
Oak Lawn United Methodist Church (OLUMC) operates two significant outreach programs: the Migrant Welcome Center and the Unsheltered Neighbor Ministry.
Migrant Welcome Center: OLUMC welcomes hundreds of legal asylum seekers weekly, arriving from U.S.-Mexico border detention centers. The church provides a warm welcome, travel bookings, meals, clothing, and transport to their travel points. This labor-intensive program, requiring extensive staff and volunteer support, is open 1-5 days a week based on migrant availability. It demands significant building resources, including internet for 100+ users, cooling systems, and water for restrooms.
Unsheltered Neighbor Ministry: This encompasses several programs:
- Community Meal: Served on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to 20-50 unsheltered neighbors.
- Clothing Closet: Open on the first and third Saturdays, providing clothing and hygiene products, with refreshments.
- Inclement Weather Shelter: Hosts up to 100 guests during extreme weather, providing meals and shelter.
- Case Management (coming soon) will offer access to Medicaid, Food Stamps, SSI benefits and state IDs.
English 
Spanish 