Now-Forward formerly NDSM

North Dallas Shared Ministries was established in 1983 by five North Dallas congregations to address the lack of social services for the indigent community in North Dallas. The theory was by combining resources – food, financial, and volunteers and operating in a secular manner – the basic needs of low-income persons, could be better addressed. 

In February 2025, while retaining North Dallas Shared Ministries, Inc. as our legal name, we became Now-Forward. Our Mission Statement became Now-Forward is the trusted and compassionate resource helping individuals through unexpected life challenges. 

We help low-income persons assume responsibility for their lives by providing temporary emergency assistance, medical and dental care, and programs designed to help them achieve stability for the long-term.

Now-Forward provides the following services at no cost to clients residing in our 24 primary service area zip codes in Addison, Dallas, DeSoto, Duncanville, Farmers Branch, and Plano.  All Dallas County residents are eligible for those services marked with an *.

Food* 

Rent & Utility Assistance  

Medical Care

Dental Care  

Eyeglasses * 

Mental Health Care

School Supplies & Uniforms*  

Clothing* 

Adult ESL Classes * 

Federal Income Tax Preparation Assistance*

Rent Advances for Disabled Dallas County Welfare Clients without Household Income.

 Now-Forward’s mission is carried out by 160 volunteers and staff of partnering entities.

In 2024, Now-Forward provided 135,000 children and adults with services valued at $6.4M, not including $624K in rent assistance advanced for DCW disabled clients without income or the $4M in tax refunds from the 2,638 federal income tax returns filed.

98 cents of every donated dollar goes directly to programs and services.

Our Needs

Volunteers

Financial Donations
Food
Gently Used Clothing and Shoes