Next STEPS the Colony

Established in 2019, Next STEPS (NS) is the only organization in The Colony with a mission to serve residents in immediate crisis. After working for another Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) homeless services organization that discontinued services in The Colony, NS founder Pamela De Santiago decided that the often-hidden needs of its residents in crisis could not go unmet. Prior to NS, most residents seeking help during a crisis went from church to church or organization to organization; there were no ongoing, consistent, comprehensive services available within the city limits. At that time, several administrative assistants from local churches were serving as informal case managers with no experience and very limited resources. Now, NS fills this gap in services by helping residents of The Colony overcome barriers on their way to financial stability and a successful life. NS provides this help through financial and employment coaching and food and housing support.