Project Hope

A subprogram of Family Connection, Project Hope was officially founded in 2017 to address the unmet needs of homeless children and families living in motels across the Dallas community. Each year, Project Hope serves approximately 250 children ages 4-12 through its array of supportive services.

On average, the Dallas ISD Homeless Education Program estimates that more than 1,000 of its students live in extended-stay motels throughout the year. Families living in motels are a subset of the homeless population that is often overlooked. Many of these children have parents who work at least one full-time job, but they simply cannot make enough to make ends meet and secure more permanent housing. For these families, food insecurity is also a huge concern.

This is where Project Hope comes in. The initiative’s year-round services include:

• After-school program held weekly at three different Dallas ISD elementary schools (includes CBSG® Program session, homework help and snacks)
• Monthly food deliveries of groceries and fresh food in partnership with Crossroads Community Services
• Three weeks of themed summer day camps (Kids’ University, Camp Bravo! and Outdoor Adventure Camp)
• Back-to-School Celebration in August (each child receives new backpack, school supplies, uniform and after-school clothing)
• Two seasonal family outings (Saturday with Santa and Easter Eggstravaganza)
• Positive mentored events (3-5 each year for small groups of children)

Ready to get involved? Here’s how you can help Rainbow Days serve these children and families:

• Volunteer — Contact Sunni Roaten for any upcoming volunteer opportunities related to Project Hope.
• Give — Your monetary donations help Rainbow Days continue this critical program, which many families depend on.
• Make an In-Kind Donation — Review the latest in-kind donation list for the most up-to-date needs.