Newsletter

Friends of DISC,

The statistics are sobering and cannot be ignored. Dallas faces a crisis marked by rising violent crime, alarming drug overdose deaths, and a growing number of children growing up without a father. These challenges weigh heavily on our community, but there is hope—because for 28 years, DISC has been dedicated to making real, lasting change.

The Stark Reality in Dallas

Dallas’s violent crime rate stands at 778 incidents per 100,000people—significantly higher than the national average and exceeding that of other major Texas cities like Austin and San Antonio. In 2024alone, drug overdoses claimed 558 lives in our city, a grim testament to the ongoing opioid and substance abuse epidemic.

Even more concerning is the silent crisis facing our children. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, nearly one in four children in the United States—18.4 million—are living without their biological fathers. This figure has doubled since 1968 and continues to climb. Research links father absence to an increased risk of depression, substance abuse, anxiety, behavioral issues, and involvement in crime. For too many young people in Dallas, the absence of a father figure is a painful reality that shapes their futures in damaging ways.

DISC’s Mission: Healing and Empowerment

For nearly three decades, DISC has stood as a beacon of hope and support for those caught in the cycle of adversity. Our comprehensive programs address the root causes of these issues, empowering men and families to rebuild their lives and thrive.

Here’ show DISC is making a difference every single day:

• Life Skills Training Centers: Located in Kaufman County and Dallas, these centers equip men with the tools to succeed.
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• Daily Church Services: Offering spiritual guidance and community connection every night at 7 PM.
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• Around-the-Clock Community Support: Our doors are open 24/7 to serve those in need.
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• Basic Needs Assistance: Including shower facilities, clothing closets, hygiene products, and three nutritious meals daily.
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• Emergency Resting Facilities: Providing safe spaces day and night.
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• Job Coaching and Training: Preparing individuals to reenter the workforce with confidence.
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• On-Site Mental Health Services: Addressing the psychological wounds that often underlie substance abuse and violence.
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• South Dallas Employment Project: Operating Monday through Thursday, offering ID assistance, resume writing, ESL, GED preparation, and more.
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• Counseling Services and Resale Store: Further resources to support rehabilitation and economic independence.
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At DISC, we don’t just provide services—we build bridges to lasting transformation. Whatever a person’s need, we find the resources to meet it.

A Call to Action

We invite you, your family, and your corporation to join us in this vital mission. Together, we can restore the life and spirit of Dallas’s inner city. Come visit us, see our work firsthand, and discover how your time, talents, and treasures can create meaningful change.

There are several ways you can help:

Pray. The Bible says that when two or more agree in prayer, their requests will be answered. Please join your prayers with ours for the hurting and broken.

Volunteer. You can volunteer at the church, the resale shop, or Life Skills. Each of us has been gifted with talents from God—use yours to serve this ministry!

Donate. Your generous one-time or recurring gift helps us continue the work God has called us to do. There are three easy ways to give:

• Send a check to DISC, P.O. Box 151461, Dallas, TX 75315
• Give electronically through Zelle at 214-650-0231
• Donate via Cash App at $karendudley1
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Thank you for supporting this ministry!

From the depths of our hearts, thank you for your support. Please keep our community in your prayers—because with your help, healing is possible, and no one has to face the road to recovery alone.

Blessings,

Karen Dudley

Senior Pastor and Founder

Dallas International Street Church

2146500231

streetsofdallas@yahoo.com