In 1994, Pastor Tommy Barnett and his son Matthew founded the Dream Center, a nonprofit organization located in the heart of Los Angeles. Originally a hospital called the “Queen of Angels,” it is now a faith-based non-profit where peoples’ lives are transformed through transitional housing programs and outreach services, all free of charge.

Adopt-a-Block is the program that started it all. Pastor Matthew Barnett began by “adopting” the immediate neighborhood of the church, knocking on doors to offer help to struggling families, and building relationships with them. The program serves over 20 low-income neighborhoods across L.A. Dedicated staff and volunteers serve these areas by cleaning, delivering meals, interacting, and praying.

Originally known as “His Hands Extended,” our clothing outreach has grown significantly over time, and through the generous donations of individuals, corporations, and other organizations, we distribute an average of 30,000 – 40,000 pieces of clothing per month. By supplying this basic necessity, we have been able to help relieve some of the pressures that people face everyday.

Though the Dream Center had food resources on-site, there was limited accessibility for those without reliable transportation. Pastor Caroline and a small group of volunteers started delivering food to the homes of those in need around the local neighborhood. Today, our mobile food trucks visit over 20 sites, serving 25,000 people per month.

The program started when Pastor Caroline became aware of how many families could not be reunited or were at risk of losing their children due to the inability to afford basic necessities such as furniture, clothing, and food. We have been able to help over 600 families avoid separation and reunite by delivering these necessities and assembling furniture for families.

Short for “Kids, Jesus, and Me,” the Kidz Jam program reaches at-risk youth between the ages of 3-12 in low-income areas of Los Angeles. Serving an average of 1,700 children per month, staff and volunteers spend quality time with the kids by playing games, helping with homework, and most importantly, sharing the gospel of Jesus.

At the end of our Drive-Thru & food line, we opened up our Food Pantry as a continuation of our relief efforts to serve as a free food resource to our community. Individuals are able to shop for groceries and household items as part of our efforts to restore L.A.

Today, the Dream Center reaches over 40,000 people per month. We have been able to make a huge difference because of the support of amazing friends, donors, and passionate volunteers like you. We thank you, and we hope that your Short-Term Missions experience awakens compassion and inspires action to love and transform your own city.