First Presbyterian Church has many opportunities for community outreach. It is important to us to position ourselves as a beacon of light in downtown Dallas and to reach out to those in need.

The Stewpot

In 1975, a bedraggled hungry man appeared at the door of First Presbyterian Church, asking for food. In response, the associate pastor and members of the church opened a small soup kitchen in the basement and named it “The Stewpot.” Today, The Stewpot is a comprehensive resource center for homeless and at-risk individuals of Dallas. The Stewpot also offers comprehensive children and youth programs.

The Stewpot operates under the 501(c)3 of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas, which provides for building maintenance, utilities, and administrative expenses of The Stewpot. Direct program support for The Stewpot comes from donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, church, and civic groups outside of First Presbyterian Church.

The Stewpot is like a hub of a wheel. An effective and accessible continuum of care with more than 27 collaborative partners is available at The Stewpot for individuals facing homelessness and poverty. Once at The Stewpot, individuals can begin to rebuild their lives.

In addition to the daily noon meal, clients can also have access to a variety of services:

Visit The Stewpot website for more information.

ESL Program

Each Saturday from 9:30-11:00 a.m., 25 ladies meet in the basement of First Presbyterian Church to take part in English as a Second Language classes. Most of the students are mothers of children in the Saturday School Program and are very grateful to have access to quality English language instruction from experienced teachers. One student remarked that she appreciated the ESL classes at First Presbyterian Church because, unlike many other organizations, FPC offers free child care during the duration of the class--which is crucial to her being able to attend. The students take part in large group discussions and instruction, as well as small group and one-one-one tutoring led by volunteers.

Along with learning new things each week, the women have a wonderful time visiting with each other, as well as with the staff members and volunteers. If you would like information about serving as a volunteer with the ESL classes, please contact Christine Denison at christened@thestewpot.org or call 214-746-2785, ext. 331.

Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity

First Presbyterian Church has helped build or renovate Habitat for Humanity houses for five years. It is an excellent opportunity for both skilled and unskilled volunteers. Each fall, as part of Habitat’s “Building on Faith” project, we partner with other faith communities and the homeowner to build a home in 10-12 Saturdays. Help is needed on many levels: construction supervisors, photography, food coordinators, family liaison, landscaping, painting, siding, roofing. Any amount of time a volunteer can donate is needed and appreciated. Please contact the Mission and Benevolences Committee for more information.

Hands with Heart Day