A community in need 

Residents of Southern Dallas face significant health challenges, exacerbated by food insecurity, income inequality and limited healthcare access. In the Frazier neighborhood, the rates of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and stroke are the highest in the city. Additionally, residents in surrounding ZIP codes are three times more likely to suffer from chronic conditions compared to those in other parts of Dallas. These disparities highlight the urgent need for meaningful interventions and sustainable support to address the health needs of this community. 

A driving force for change 

In response to these challenges, Baylor Scott & White Health partnered with the City of Dallas to create the BSW Health and Wellness Center at Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center. Since its founding in 2010, this innovative center has become a cornerstone of community health and wellness, offering essential health services, prevention programs and education aimed at improving overall health and combating the challenges of chronic conditions in South Dallas. 

By embedding a comprehensive healthcare team in the community, the BSW Health and Wellness Center is making quality care more accessible and addressing the root causes of health disparities in this underserved area. 

A collaborative approach to improving health outcomes 

The BSW Health and Wellness Center provides a variety of services including a medical clinic, health coaching, nutrition counseling, and wellness classes—helping residents lead healthier lives and manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity.

However, the center is more than just a medical facility—it is a model for population health and community collaboration. By integrating social, cultural and economic initiatives, the center helps bridge the gap in healthcare access, offering a holistic approach to addressing chronic conditions and fostering a culture of prevention.  

In addition to the medical services offered, philanthropic support helps a dedicated team of community health workers and wellness staff engage directly with families and individuals to educate them about healthy habits and available resources. Key outreach programs include: 

• Tweeners Program: This youth development program provides after-school and summer activities designed to fill gaps in services for at-risk middle school students. Focusing on academic enrichment, leadership, anti-bullying, nutrition education, and career exploration, this program helps empower young people to make healthier choices and succeed in life. 

• Healthy Cities Program: This community-based initiative extends evidence-based health programs and promotes positive health behaviors in high-need neighborhoods. By bringing healthcare services directly to the community, we ensure that residents have the knowledge and tools to lead healthier lives. 

• PEERS Program: A critical outreach effort that uses community health workers to educate the public about chronic disease prevention and management. This program increases awareness of the importance of prevention and offers practical guidance on managing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. 

Additionally, BSW Health and Wellness Center offers hands-on support to help residents improve their nutrition and food access through: 

• Cooking Classes: These classes teach participants how to prepare nutritious, delicious meals that are affordable and easy to make.  

• Weekly Farm Stands: To combat food insecurity and provide access to fresh produce, the Center operates a weekly farm stand, offering affordable, locally grown fruits and vegetables. 

• Nutrition Education: One-on-one counseling and group classes with registered dietitians and nutritionists support families in making informed food choices. 

• Medical Nutrition Therapy: Nutrition specialists provide personalized counseling to help participants meet their health goals or manage chronic conditions. 

Accelerated through donor support, these initiatives are creating a healthier, more resilient community, one family at a time.

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Your opportunity to make an impact at the Juanita J. Craft Health & Wellness Center

There are several ways you can support the mission of the Juanita J. Craft Health & Wellness Center. You can make a direct donation to the center or choose to give through two signature events—Healthy Harvest and the Chef Cookoff—both of which directly benefit the center’s work. Every gift helps provide care, education and resources to Southern Dallas residents, creating a healthier, more vibrant future for the community.