Category: Health Care

The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute announces new leadership and executive board of the Caruth Police Institute

Communities Foundation of Texas awarded a grant to the Meadows Institute to operate the Caruth Police Institute to continue to advance public safety innovation in North Texas and across the country

The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute announced today that it would begin operating the Caruth Police Institute (CPI) and named a new director and members of the executive board.

Scott Donaldson, vice president of CPI, will serve as its director, and Tarrick McGuire, the chief of the Alexandria, Virginia, police department, will serve as the president of the executive board. CPI’s executive board features experts from across the country who are committed to ensuring that CPI remains a leader in modern police training and developing positive relationships between police departments and the community.

Communities Foundation of Texas awarded a grant to allow the Meadows Institute to operate CPI, which will continue to serve Dallas and North Texas while expanding its impact across Texas and the rest of the country.

CPI is the nation’s premier resource for advancing public safety leadership, innovation, and officer wellness and provides consulting, technical assistance, and training to departments and municipal governments across Texas and the nation. It was founded in 2008 and had been previously run by the University of North Texas at Dallas.

“The Caruth Police Institute is grateful to Communities Foundation of Texas for its transformative gift to allow the Meadows Institute to operate CPI,” said Donaldson. “I am honored to lead CPI and ensure that our partnership with police departments and municipal governments promotes public safety and builds strong connections between officers and the communities they serve.”

CPI is a leading voice for advancing public safety innovation and excellence. It provides technical assistance that supports agencies with data analysis, policy development, and operational implementation to strengthen community safety and officer wellness. It also offers a wide range of ongoing training and education programs for officers, civilian leadership, and public safety executive leaders. These programs address crucial needs in the law enforcement community, such as mental health response and crime-reduction strategies.

“Communities Foundation of Texas is committed to investing in public safety as we seek to build a thriving community for all,” said Wayne White, the president and CEO of Communities Foundation of Texas. “The Caruth Police Institute has long served as a leading voice here in North Texas and across the state and nation for innovative efforts that support both officers and residents. A safer community is a stronger community, and increasing safety includes investing in training, education, and implementing best practices. This investment allows the Meadows Institute to further public safety innovation forward in a bold way.”

The Meadows Institute’s operation of CPI signals a growing prioritization of strengthening the mental health and wellness of officers and improving the relationships between police departments and the communities they serve.

“I’ve had the privilege of serving as an instructor with the Caruth Police Institute, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact CPI has when we invest early in developing thoughtful, ethical leaders long before they ever step into command staff roles,” said Chief McGuire. “Policing today demands more from our people at every level, and that preparation cannot wait until someone earns rank. I’m excited and honored to serve as president of the CPI executive board and to help advance CPI’s mission of shaping the next generation of public safety leaders across the country.”

Source: Press release

March 3, 2026
Pioneering health care workforce program in Las Vegas Trail graduates its first class

Twice a week for 12 weeks, seven adults from the Las Vegas Trail neighborhood have been taking classes at the Cook Children’s Neighborhood Health Center at Las Vegas Trail to start a career in health care.

The Las Vegas Trail Workforce Development Training Program is a partnership with Cook Children’s, JPS Health Network, Tarrant County College (TCC) and Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County. The initiative equips adults with the essential skills for the medical administrative field, ranging from medical office duties to patient- and family-centered care.

“What makes this cohort and this type of training program different is that we guarantee interviews once the students complete the 12-week training program,” explained Christine Hernandez, Cook Children’s manager of workforce development.

For Kierra Miles, the program is a bridge to a lifelong dream of becoming a pediatric psychiatrist. A mother of one who grew up near the Las Vegas Trail neighborhood, Miles discovered the opportunity through her apartment’s resident portal.

“This is a good program because it works within communities that don’t have the resources that everyone else has,” said Miles.

The neighborhood was once a thriving job market anchored by Carswell Air Force Base. In 1993, the base closed its active-duty operations, resulting in an economic decline in the area.

“The goal is to give our students educational training so they are able to find a role that will change their economic ability,” said Hernandez.

The lack of stable and meaningful employment has led to an increase in poverty and crime in the Las Vegas Trail neighborhood. Cook Children’s Health Care System understands that health is not just about physical condition. It encompasses all aspects of the patient’s being. The training program is one way to ensure the health of the community, Hernandez explains.

“When you have the stress of not having a job, not having financial stability, giving these individuals an educational opportunity will help these future health care workers improve their overall lifestyle and well-being,” said Hernandez.

Mock interviews

Weeks before graduation, students sat down for mock interviews with hiring managers and human resources staff from JPS and Cook Children’s. It was a chance to practice communication skills taught in class, focus on empathy, and receive real-time feedback from the people who might soon be their colleagues.

“The training program was designed with the intention of making sure that we’re focused on the customer service skills that we are looking for to hire people in our organization,” explained Hernandez.

Jazmine Montejo Williamson, a mother of three, enjoyed speaking with employees from both health care entities to determine where she would be the best fit.

“It’s not just them trying to hire us; we get to see if we would be a good fit with them as well,” said Williamson.

She wants to return to the medical field. Williamson learned about the opportunity while at her current job. On her days off, she studies at the neighborhood health center. The mother of three says that thanks to her faith and the support of her family, she has not missed a day of class.

“My children tell me that they’re proud of me,” said Williamson as tears welled up in her eyes.

Her goal is to work in public relations for Cook Children’s.

A new chapter

On Dec. 18, the class reached a milestone: it became the first graduating class. During a private graduation ceremony, each student received a certificate of completion from Tarrant County College.

For Miles, the certificate represents more than a credential. It means a new sense of self.

“I feel way more confident,” she said. “I have the skills and the courage to actually go out and do it.”

Those moments make Hernandez proud, and as she reflected on the program’s impact on both the community and the participants’ families, she teared up.

“I see a lot of growth from them from the day that they walked into the program today,” said Hernandez. “To get to see the program come to fruition and see the final step, graduation, is a proud moment for me both professionally and personally. I am really looking forward to them using their new skills to land their dream job.”

Graduates have begun interviewing with JPS and Cook Children’s. Once a graduate is hired, they will go through that organization’s hiring process.

The next program begins in February. The deadline to register is Jan. 15. Interested applicants can apply here.

Source: Press release

January 15, 2026
M2G Ventures’ sixth annual Art of the Mind Gala raises $500,000+ for mental health initiative

M2G Ventures, a North Texas-based real estate investment and development firm, recently hosted its sixth annual fundraising gala, Art of the Mind, raising more than $500,000 for M2G’s Mental Health Initiative (MHI) through an auction featuring art and experiences.

The funds benefit the University of Texas Southwestern’s Center for Depression Research & Clinical Care (CDRC) in Tarrant County and The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation (JEHF) and its Summit for Research. More than 300 guests attended the event, which was hosted on Nov. 6 at Tannahill’s Tavern & Music Hall in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards.

M2G’s cofounders, Jessica Miller Essl and Susan Miller, launched the M2G Mental Health Initiative (MHI) in 2019 following the loss of a loved one to bipolar disorder. MHI earned 501(c)(3) status in 2022 to change the way the world diagnoses and treats mental illness. Since it began, the initiative has raised more than $2 million.

“MHI’s philanthropic beneficiaries are notable institutions doing great work, and these are long-term partnerships for us,” Miller said. “Their work and research-based care set the standard for future partnerships. We are growing and evolving MHI and understand the importance of backing change-makers. We are their biggest cheerleaders and can’t wait to see how we can support them in the future.”

One beneficiary, the UT Southwestern CDRC, brings its services, studies and resources to children and young adults in Tarrant County and across North Texas, and is nationally acclaimed for innovative research in unipolar and bipolar depression, among other advances.

The other beneficiary, JEHF, hosts an annual Summit for Research conference that brings together 20 of the world’s leading suicidologists to collaborate and determine how their work can influence JEHF programming. According to JEHF’s 2024 Impact Report, this summit contributed to broader efforts that helped achieve a 75% decrease in suicide in the schools JEHF serves.

M2G, known for integrating immersive art into its development projects, strategically partnered with local, regional and national artists to commission fine art that was auctioned during Art of the Mind’s live auction.

Included in the auction lineup were works by well-known artists Katie Murray, Knox Kronenberg, Captain Casual, Lindsey Meyer, Erin Davies Miller, Michael Wayne Hall, Gregory Gove, Elle Caerbert and Carroll Swenson-Roberts. Experience-based items included an exclusive culinary experience donated by Chef Tim Love, an exclusive fishing trip to the Amazon, a luxury yachting adventure launching from Miami and several more custom opportunities.

“The impact of this event grows each year because our community continues to show up with compassion, generosity and a collective passion for change,” Essl said. “The art moves us, the shared understanding inspires us, and the collective support brings us closer to transforming the way mental illness is understood and treated.”

M2G’s second annual impact wall, which honors loved ones who have lived or currently endure mental health struggles, was showcased with an interactive feature, a custom scarf made by Wild Silks. Guests had the opportunity to chainstitch their loved one’s name, initials, etc., providing a meaningful memento to honor and remember their loved ones, in partnership with W Durable Goods

Entertainment was provided by Fort Worth native Armond Vance, and a private concert by Hans Williams closed the evening.

“Art of the Mind was created from an idea that ties together our love of art with our passion to change outcomes for those living with mental illness,” said Katie Wharry, M2G’s director of social impact. “This event would not have been possible without our generous donors. We want to extend a special thank you to Simmons Bank, Winstead PC and Balfour Beatty. Through their generosity, we were able to create an evening of discussion, hope and inspiration.”

Community participation in the MHI initiative is welcome. Information about how to invest in the future of mental health, as well as more about M2G’s Mental Health Initiative, is available at the company’s social impact page.

Source: Press release

December 19, 2025
UNT Dallas celebrates ribbon cutting for $100 million STEM facility

The most consequential campus addition in UNT Dallas’ history, the innovative building will open January 2026, expanding pathways to high-demand medical and nursing careers

The University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas) marked a major milestone today, celebrating the ribbon cutting of its highly anticipated $100 million STEM facility – a transformational academic center designed to strengthen North Texas’ healthcare and science workforce pipeline.

The 120,220-square-foot building, completed just two years after its September 2023 groundbreaking, will welcome students when the Spring 2026 semester begins Jan. 12. It stands as the most consequential addition to the UNT Dallas campus in university history.

University leaders were joined by elected officials, healthcare partners and community stakeholders, along with UNT Dallas students, for the dedication of the four-story complex. Speakers included UNT Dallas President Dr. Warren von Eschenbach; Dr. Michael Williams, Chancellor of the University of North Texas System; State Senator Royce West; and Isabelle Chung, a senior biology major who will graduate next month.“Today we celebrate opportunity – for our students, for employers across North Texas and for the communities we serve,” said UNT Dallas President Dr. Warren von Eschenbach. “This state-of-the-art STEM facility allows UNT Dallas to help meet urgent healthcare and workforce needs at a time when the demand for nurses and other practitioners continues to dramatically outpace supply.”

Texas continues to experience one of the largest nursing shortages in the country. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the state faces a deficit of more than 48,000 registered nurses in 2025, growing to 50,000 by 2027 and 57,000 by 2032. The unmet demand for RNs will remain a persistent 15-16% gap each year, with hospitals shouldering the greatest need. Additional statewide data shows 64% of Texas hospitals have reduced services due to staffing shortages.

The new STEM facility directly responds to these challenges by expanding UNT Dallas’ capacity to train future healthcare professionals through accelerated pathways to medical and health careers, including nursing, dental, pharmacy, optometry and other fields. These programs are offered in collaboration with UNT Health Fort Worth’s Colleges of Nursing and Pharmacy and the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine. The STEM program will be part of UNT Dallas’ School of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

The cutting-edge building features 18 classrooms; 12 laboratories, including nine teaching labs and three research labs; a dedicated Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP) office; multiple collaborative spaces, faculty offices and a large event venue. The structure also features extensive natural light, energy-efficient design and outdoor study areas that reflect UNT Dallas’ Tree Campus USA designation. Programs housed in the building at launch include biology, chemistry, mathematics and neuroscience.

High-impact instruction will prepare students for careers in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry and optometry, and a robust STEM Pre-Health Professions Program will guarantee medical-school admission opportunities for eligible students.

Smaller class sizes and direct access to faculty will help students develop personalized academic roadmaps, supported by one-on-one mentorship for pre-health majors – many of whom are first-generation college students seeking clear pathways into stable, in-demand and well-paying careers.

The building was designed by Stantec and HarrisonKornberg Architects, with Vaughn Construction serving as general contractor. Funding for the STEM facility was awarded by the Texas Legislature during the 2021 legislative session.

As the only public, four-year university located in the city of Dallas, UNT Dallas continues to expand access and upward mobility for its more than 3,500 students. The new STEM facility strengthens the university’s role in preparing career-ready professionals for high-demand healthcare and STEM fields, while supporting regional employers and advancing economic development in southern Dallas.

Source: Press release

December 11, 2025
Solvita partners with Taylor’s Gift to provide grief support for donor families

Solvita, a nonprofit organization serving communities across the globe is the first tissue bank to have partnered with Taylor’s Gift, a national organization dedicated to providing emotional grief support to families of organ, eye, and tissue donors.

Through this new partnership, donor families who work with Solvita Branches will have access to Taylor’s Gift’s Grief Support Program, designed specifically for families of organ, eye, and tissue donors.

“We’re honored to partner with Taylor’s Gift to provide our donor families with grief support after the loss of their loved one.”, said Chris Graham, President & CEO of Solvita. “It’s part of our mission, and Taylor’s Gift helps us enhance the lives of the families we serve.”

Taylor’s Gift’s Grief Support Program provides one-on-one support, peer connections, and educational resources to help donor families process their grief in a safe, understanding environment. Since its founding in 2010, Taylor’s Gift has expanded its outreach to support donor families across the nation, helping them find hope and healing through shared experiences.

“Working with Solvita allows us to extend our mission to even more families who have given the extraordinary gift of donation,” said Tara Storch, Co-Founder of Taylor’s Gift. “Together, we’re ensuring that no donor family has to walk through grief alone.”

Source: press release

November 21, 2025
Child Care Associates awarded funding from HHS to expand nutrition services through Head Start
In celebration of National Head Start Awareness Month, Child Care Associates (CCA) announced that it has been awarded $934,763 in supplemental nutrition funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF). This funding aligns with the national Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative and will support enhanced nutrition services, improve child access to healthy foods, and foster healthy eating habits for children and families in Tarrant County.

“We are truly grateful for this investment in our Head Start program,” said Ashley Flowers, Director of Nutrition for Child Care Associates. “With this support, we can deepen our commitment to ensuring that each child in our program has regular access to fresh, nutritious foods and nutrition education that will set the foundation for lifelong health.”

Child Care Associates is the 6th largest grant recipient in the nation and the 2nd largest in Texas – a testament to the trust placed in the organization to deliver high-quality early childhood education and family support services across its 12 centers and home visiting services.

“Being among the top grantees underscores both our responsibility and our opportunity,” said Kara Waddell, President and CEO. “We are deeply honored to serve children, families, and communities at this level and remain committed to ensuring that every child—regardless of neighborhood or circumstance—has access to a strong start in life.”

This national investment allows CCA to make improvements in a variety of nutrition areas including:
- Kitchen Equipment Upgrades
- Home-Based Cooking Kits to bring healthy eating experiences to children who do not access on-site meals
- Family-Style Dining tools to help toddlers transition to independent eating
- Breastfeeding Resources for mothers
- Hydration Access Equipment that supports child-level direct access to filtered water both indoors and outdoors
- Nutrition Education evidence-based training for early educators & nutrition staff to support healthy eating for selective eaters
- Farm-to-School Training and child garden enhancements
These services and resources will directly benefit 899 children and families in Tarrant County in year one. Children will not just receive healthier meals; they will gain hands-on learning experiences, and families will be empowered with knowledge to make healthy and nutritious choices, even beyond the Head Start setting. This investment will continue to improve nutritional education for children in the decade ahead and beyond.

This award is part of the broader MAHA strategy announced by HHS, which recently allocated over $61 million in supplemental funding to more than 290 Head Start programs nationwide. The goal is to support nutrition services, promote healthy eating habits, and improve access to nutrient-dense foods for more than 100,000 children and families across the country.

Source: press release
October 16, 2025
El Rancho Supermercado joins Texas Health Resources and Double Up Texas program
Heritage Grocers Group, the largest Hispanic and ethnic food retailer in the country and parent company of El Rancho Supermercado (El Rancho), is joining Texas Health Resources in its efforts to make fresh produce more affordable for area families. Heritage is working with Texas Health to offer Double Up Food Bucks Texas benefits to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients at eight of its North Texas El Rancho stores. El Rancho’s entry into the program brings the total number of grocery stores and farmers markets accepting Double Up Texas benefits in North Texas to 25.

Double Up Texas is led statewide by Sustainable Food Center and carried out regionally by Texas Health Community Hope, Texas Health’s unique approach to promoting healthier futures through a broad range of impactful initiatives, investments, and collaborations. The program allows shoppers receiving SNAP benefits to double their purchasing dollars when buying fresh fruits and vegetables at participating grocers and farmers markets by either matching or discounting fresh produce purchases. This work is supported by the Double Up Food Bucks Texas program, project award No. 2024-70415-43711, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

As an introductory offer through August 31, anyone using a Lone Star Card at a participating El Rancho store will automatically receive 50% off their fresh produce purchase, up to $10 per day per transaction. After that date, the offer will be 50% off, up to $5 per day per transaction.

“We’re proud to partner with Texas Health to expand the Double Up Food Bucks program in North Texas,” said Adam Salgado, president and executive director for the Heritage Grocers Giving Foundation. “Making benefits available to our customers means more nutritious food on the table for families who need it most. But the impact goes beyond individual households. This partnership is a commitment to food security, to public health, and to the well-being of the communities we serve every day.”

Since its inception, El Rancho Supermercado has been dedicated to making Hispanic customers feel at home. The company prides itself on selling authentic and affordable offerings in a welcoming environment. The eight El Rancho locations participating in the Double Up Texas program are:
- 655 W. Illinois Ave., Dallas, TX 75224
- 701 S. Stemmons Freeway, Lewisville, TX 75067
- 10020 Marsh Lane, Dallas, TX 75229
- 4812 South Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76115
- 821 N. McDonald St., McKinney, TX 75069
- 2506 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052
- 3460 W. Walnut St., Garland, TX 75042
- 3535 N. Belt Line Road, Irving, TX 75062
Double Up Texas benefits are also available at three additional El Rancho locations — two in Houston and one in Odessa.

“El Rancho has a well-established and trusted local presence,” said Matt Dufrene, a vice president for Texas Health. “El Rancho’s participation in this important initiative means more local families can now access Double Up Texas benefits, and that’s a win for the well-being of our entire community.”

Texas Health first introduced Double Up Food Bucks to North Texas in 2020 at Fort Worth’s Cowtown Farmers Market as part of its larger efforts to make healthy choices easier and more accessible. The program has since expanded to include Foodland Markets and Tom Thumb grocery stores, as well as a number of additional farmers market locations.

Double Up Texas locations are selected based on a variety of factors, including findings from the Texas Health Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA); the geographic area served by vendors willing and able to implement the Double Up Texas program; and the ability to fund new locations. Texas Health continues to seek out funding partners and expand Double Up Texas by working with area merchants to accept and promote benefits. Plans are in place to add additional Double Up locations in the coming year.

A full list of locations for Double Up Texas and Texas Health’s other healthy food access programs can be found at this link .

Source: press release
August 1, 2025
Rutledge Cancer Foundation announces leadership transition

Rutledge Cancer Foundation (RCF) announced a significant leadership transition that marks an exciting new chapter in the organization’s journey. After 15 years of dedicated service, Laura Rutledge will step down from the role of Executive Director and continue to serve on the RCF Board of Directors, where she will take on a new role as Director of Research.

This leadership change follows a thoughtful and comprehensive search led by Whitney Smith of Higginbotham and a dedicated team of RCF board members. RCF will welcome Lynn Hammer as its new Executive Director, effective August 2025.

A Fort Worth native, Hammer brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, community engagement, and strategic development. She began her career at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, holding various leadership roles including columnist and associate publisher of a lifestyle magazine she helped launch. Most recently, Hammer served as Executive Director of the Foundation for the Young Women’s Leadership Academy of Fort Worth, where she led transformative fundraising efforts and championed leadership programs for first-generation college-bound students.

Her previous role as Vice President of Development for the American Heart Association of Fort Worth further demonstrates her proven ability to build meaningful relationships and drive sustainable growth in mission-driven organizations.

“RCF has had a remarkable impact on the lives of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients, and I’m honored to lead such a passionate and purpose-driven organization,” said Hammer. “I look forward to building on this incredible foundation and working with our dedicated team, board, donors, patients, and community to expand our reach and deepen our impact.”

Rutledge added, “This is more than a leadership change—it’s a pivotal moment for RCF. With Lynn at the helm, we are poised to expand our impact, enhance our research efforts, and serve even more AYA cancer patients and their families. I look forward to working closely with her during this transition and beyond.”

Founded in 2011, the Rutledge Cancer Foundation remains deeply committed to easing the impact of cancer on young lives, increasing survival rates, and finding a cure for sarcomas and other solid tumor cancers. With Hammer’s leadership and the ongoing support of the RCF community, the foundation is well positioned to continue its mission and broaden its reach.

To date, RCF has invested more than 3 million dollars across Texas and Denver in AYA patient programs, services and cutting edge research in top institutions across the country for less toxic and curative therapies for sarcomas.

Source: press release

July 11, 2025
Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas announced first Honorary Board Member

The Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas (DSPNT) announced the appointment of Heidi Angel as its first-ever Honorary Board Member. This newly established role recognizes individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the organization and its mission to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Heidi, a partner at Jackson Walker LLP in the Trusts & Estates practice group, brings not only deep professional expertise but also a strong personal connection to DSPNT’s mission. Her daughter, Emily, is an active participant in DSPNT’s teen and family programming, which further fuels Heidi’s commitment to the organization’s continued success.

A former middle school Spanish teacher and sign language interpreter, Heidi holds a master’s degree in Linguistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned her law degree from Texas A&M School of Law. She previously served on the DSPNT Board of Directors from 2014 to 2020, where she helped guide key strategic initiatives and contributed to the organization’s growth and sustainability.

“Having a child with Down syndrome has given me a personal connection to this mission,” said Heidi. “I understand the joys and challenges our families experience and know how critical it is to have an organization like DSPNT advocating, educating, and providing community for us all.”

In her professional role, Heidi focuses on estate planning, including special needs trusts and disability-related planning. She is a respected voice in the field and frequently speaks on guardianship and special needs planning for organizations such as The Arc, IDD Council, Cook Children’s, and various Special Education PTAs.

The Honorary Board Member designation is a non-voting advisory role designed to tap the wisdom and experience of past board members and community leaders who remain committed to the mission of DSPNT.

“We are thrilled to have Heidi serve in this new capacity,” said Kim Smiley, Executive Director of DSPNT. “Her insights, professional knowledge, and unwavering passion for our families make her an invaluable asset to our board and organization.”

As an Honorary Board Member, Heidi will continue to support DSPNT’s advocacy, education, and outreach efforts—ensuring that families across North Texas have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Source: press release

July 11, 2025

Communities Foundation of Texas awards $9.7M in health care grants

Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT) has awarded $9.7 million in grants to nonprofits committed to expanding access to health services across North Texas, from infants to seniors. These organizations serve a variety of needs, age groups, and communities, with a shared focus on ensuring individuals who are under-insured or uninsured can receive care.

$9.2 million in grant awards support campus expansions and redevelopments at the following nonprofits: Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas, Metrocare, Nexus Family Recovery Center, and Resource Center. Funding will help launch or expand transformative healthcare programs and facilities that promote the well-being of individuals and families across the region.

“CFT believes that a thriving community is one where everyone feels supported and cared for,” said Wayne White, President and CEO of Communities Foundation of Texas. “These investments are about so much more than the buildings; what we’re investing in is the transformative and expanded care that these facilities and campuses will make possible. Each of these nonprofits offer a wide range of services that promote health, going beyond direct support. These organizations apply innovative, systemic approaches to advancing health equity, helping ensure that our community members can prioritize their well-being, regardless of socioeconomic or insurance status.”

About the grantees:

Children’s Medical Center Foundation is the fundraising arm for Children’s Health, one of the largest nonprofit pediatric health systems in North Texas. For over 70 years, Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas has provided effective and accessible whole-person care to any patient in-need. Metrocare is the largest provider of mental health and intellectual developmental disability services in Dallas County.

Nexus Family Recovery Center provides comprehensive care (including childcare support to keep families together) to women recovering from substance use disorders. With 40+ years of experience, Resource Center provides affirming care for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies.

“From a landmark new pediatric hospital to expanded mental health services, these organizations are improving the lives of thousands of people across our region—many of whom might otherwise go without the care they need and deserve,” said Robert Kent, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Communities Foundation of Texas. “CFT is proud to invest in these innovative and essential organizations that are laying the groundwork for a healthier North Texas, now and for generations to come.”

CFT has a long-standing commitment to improving health outcomes and has funded health-focused nonprofits throughout its 70-year history.

Recognizing the urgent need for maternal health support in North Texas, CFT has also awarded $455,000 to 12 organizations advancing maternal healthcare: Abide Women’s Health Services, Delighted to Doula Birth Services, HHM Health, Hope Cottage, In My Shoes, Jonathan’s Place, LBU Community, Nexus Family Recovery Center, Storks Nest Charity Fund of Dallas, TexProtects, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, Viola’s House. More information about these awards is available on CFT’s website here. These organizations now meet regularly through a maternal health peer learning collaborative that CFT facilitates, which has allowed them to create new partnerships, align on community needs, and share best practices.

To encourage additional public support for any of these 17 nonprofits expanding access to health, CFT and a generous CFT fundholder are matching donations dollar for dollar, up to $50,000 in total through CFT’s North Texas Giving Day platform, which is open year-round for giving. North Texans can learn more and give at https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/p/GivewithCFT from June 26 to July 3.

The following table provides a full list of CFT’s five 2025 health grantees, information on award amounts, and what CFT’s funding will support.

Organization	Grant Amount Awarded	What’s Funded
Children’s Medical Center Foundation	$3,000,000	Funding will support the new pediatric campus in Dallas, a joint investment between Children’s Health and UT Southwestern Medical Center, and will be one of the country’s largest and most transformative pediatric hospitals. The new Dallas pediatric campus will include the Communities Foundation of Texas Family Lounge. With the pediatric population in North Texas expected to double by 2050, the new Dallas campus will meet the region’s growth and needs of future generations.
Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas (JFS)	$1,500,000	Funding will support the development of a new Community Health Center, which is expected to provide care for 55,000 people annually – four-fifths of whom are low-income. JFS serves the Greater Dallas community, regardless of one’s race, ethnicity, religion, or ability to pay.
Metrocare	$2,500,000	Funding will support the capital campaign for a new Mental Health and Intellectual Disability Innovation Center. The Center will expand Metrocare’s capacity to serve by 23%. The Center will provide integrated, evidence-based care for children, adults, families, veterans, and those with disabilities, regardless of ability to pay.
Nexus Family Recovery Center	$1,250,000	Funding will support Phase 2 of Nexus Family Recovery Center’s Recovery Rising campaign, which features a new and expanded Pregnant and Parenting Women with Children dormitory and Child Development Center. Nexus is transforming its 11-acre campus into a state-of-the-art recovery village which will serve over 7,000 women and children annually. Nexus treats women with substance use disorders while also caring for their children, and the center makes it easier for clients to access multiple services in one location including behavioral health, medication assisted treatment, and outpatient services.
Resource Center	$1,000,000	Funding will support Resource Center’s comprehensive campaign for a new health center, Resource Center Health, which is projected to care for 9,500+ people annually, a 36% increase from current capacity. The new multi-specialty community health center will offer primary care, HIV care and prevention, a food pantry and hot meals, STI testing, and a full-service pharmacy.

source: press release

June 26, 2025