City, County join forces to help people who are homeless

The City of Dallas and the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office announced two new programs they hope will help people who are homeless get the services they need just in time for Second Chance Month.

Dallas City Attorney Larry Casto detailed the creation of a “Night Court” to address issues involving Class C misdemeanors during a joint press conference with Dallas County District Attorney Faith Johnson at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library.

A Class C misdemeanor conviction could impair one’s ability to rent a home, obtain a student loan, or have a negative effect on future employment.

The newly launched Dallas County District Attorney’s Office Homeless Diversion Court will function under DA Faith Johnson, and address Class A and Class B Misdemeanors.

Social service providers & the Dallas Police Department will refer participants eligible for the programs. The idea is to provide the program participants with proven solutions for a self-sufficient life with our community partners.

Hours of operation for the City Attorney’s Office Night Court will be held at 2014 Main Street, Courtroom #1 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursdays. The District Attorney’s Office Homeless Diversion Court Program host location is 1515 Young Street, operating from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursdays as well. Prospective City of Dallas  Night Court program participants may call 214-670-7129 to find out if they qualify.

People interested in participating in Dallas County’s Homeless Diversion Court program may call 214-653-3600 and ask for Assistant District Attorney Lindy Brooks to find out if they are eligible. She may also be contacted via email at [email protected].

Community partners include Homeward Bound Inc., CitySquare Community Clinic, The Salvation Army, MetroCare Services, and Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative (T.O.R.I.).