Poverty In Dallas

Just as there is poverty across the United States, there is poverty right here in Dallas. Texas has a higher rate of poverty compared to the rest of the US—15.8%, compared to 12.6% overall. You might hear us talk a lot about the Vickery Meadow neighborhood, just north of SMU. In addition to being the most densely populated neighborhood of Dallas, the residents represent many racial backgrounds, and the area has the highest refugee population in Dallas. At the same time, the average household income is just over $34,000.

As SMU Catholic, we’re working to get involved in the community, to get to know the people who live there, and to volunteer our time to help as much as we can. Every Wednesday, we tutor at two locations: 3111, which is run by Catholic Charities, and Heart House, an after school program. You’re always welcome to join us!