Entryway is a 501(c)(3) organization that transitions individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness to economic self-sufficiency by providing full-time employment, housing and career training opportunities in partnership with the real estate industry. Our vision is to change the trajectory of those experiencing situational homelessness in our country by providing two critical components - housing and employment.
Entryway was founded within the multifamily housing industry to provide a prudent, common-sense solution to a social issue that has been growing unchecked for decades. The multifamily real estate industry (the apartment industry) is perfectly positioned to provide full-time employment and housing opportunities simultaneously to individuals who are facing homelessness as the result of personal crisis and require support to regain their economic independence.
Entryway North Texas was launched in November 2022.
In 2024, Entryway North Texas was a Unted Way of Metropolitan Dallas Social Innovation Accelerator Program finalist and presented at "The Pitch".
Financial Impact
The Entryway program has a significant impact on its hired participants and the communities they live in. When a participant completes the Entryway program after one year, the financial impact can total up to $88,982.
For the year hired participants are enrolled in the Entryway program, they receive an average benefit of $44,176 in increased income, housing benefits (waived deposits, rental discounts), and donated furniture/household items, helping them gain financial footing after an unstable episode.
A one-year average of $8,440 is produced in local taxes by each hired participant, and communities can recognize an average $36,666 reduction in homeless services cost by transitioning individuals out of homelessness.
Providing a life-changing solution for situational homelessness
Entryway is a national 501(c)3 organization that transitions individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness to economic self-sufficiency by providing career training, full-time employment and housing opportunities in partnership with the real estate industry.
In order to support individuals striving to reenter the workforce and gain stable housing it is essential to address critical barriers that hinder their progress. Workforce development initiatives must go beyond skills training by providing comprehensive support in areas that directly impact a person's ability to secure and maintain employment.
Workforce Development: There is a need for accessible workforce development programs that offer relevant skills training, job search assistance, and career coaching. These programs should be designed to meet the needs of diverse populations, including those with limited work experience, career changers, and individuals returning to the workforce after an extended absence.
Interview Clothing: Many individuals lack the financial resources to purchase professional attire necessary for job interviews. This lack of appropriate clothing can diminish self-confidence and reduce the chances of making a positive first impression with potential employers. There is a need for initiatives that provide access to quality interview clothing, helping individuals present themselves confidently and professionally.
Transportation: Reliable transportation is a critical factor in job accessibility. Many job seekers face significant challenges in commuting to interviews, training sessions, and ultimately, their workplaces due to the lack of affordable transportation options. There is a need for transportation assistance that offer solutions such as subsidized public transit passes, ride-sharing services, or even vehicle repair assistance to ensure individuals can consistently access interviews and employment opportunities.
Utility Payments: For many low-income individuals, the burden of setting up utility accounts can be overwhelming, particularly when they are unemployed or underemployed. The stress can distract from job search efforts and negatively impact overall well-being. There is a need for financial assistance that help cover essential utility costs, enabling individuals to focus on securing and maintaining employment.
By addressing these critical needs, we can empower individuals to overcome barriers to employment, thus fostering economic stability and community resilience.
Entryway conducts its activities according to the following Diversity, Equity and Inclusion statement:
At Entryway, we believe every employee, program contributor, and program participant brings a unique perspective and experience. Therefore, we seek to build an organization where everyone feels empowered to bring forth their full, authentic selves, where multiple approaches and points of view are honored, and diverse voices are valued and celebrated. This includes members of all underrepresented communities.
Programmatically we partner with a diverse group of referring partners, casting a wide net to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. We have hundreds of referring partners including shelters, domestic violence organizations, homeless providers, refugee resettlement programs, nonprofit service agencies, veteran programs, community colleges, trade schools and workforce development organizations to name a few. Program participants benefit from our work by receiving specialized training and access to a network of hiring partners who are ready to receive them.
Organization name
Entryway North Texas
Causes
Economic/Financial Security/Poverty
Operating Budget
$250,000 - $499,999
Counties Served
Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Tarrant, Wise
BIPOC Serving
Black or African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latinx, Native American, Other
BIPOC Leadership
Neither/None
Address
5805 Aztec Dr