40th Anniversary

Celebrating 40 Years

2022 marks the 40th anniversary of Wilkinson Center’s founding. We invite you to learn about our history, share your personal stories, and help us continue our mission of creating pathways to self-sufficiency.

History

After seeing a child dig in a dumpster for food, Reverend Clayton Lewis, then pastor of Munger Place United Methodist Church, resolved to do what he could to relieve this situation in East Dallas. In September 1982, Rev. Lewis provided 67 families with food and clothing, and thus the seed of Wilkinson Center was planted. Please enjoy this timeline of Wilkinson Center’s history and growth throughout the decades.

Then & Now

A lot has changed in the last 40 years, but Wilkinson Center’s goal of ending generational poverty has not. With the tremendous increase in the cost of living over the decades, our services are needed more than ever.

1982 2022
A gallon of milk $2.24 $3.48
1 pound of bacon $1.79 $7.21
1 dozen eggs $.79 $2.00
Loaf of white bread $.69 $1.47
Peanut butter (28 oz) $1.48 $3.99
A gallon of gas $1.30 $4.02
Median rent (Texas) $246/month $1,091/month
A new car $9,370 $47,077
Median home price (national) $69,300 $352,906
Minimum wage (federal) $3.35 $7.25

Milestone Celebrations

We think it’s important to celebrate and remember our successes. Please enjoy these photos from previous anniversary events.

25th Anniversary: An Evening of Hope

30th Anniversary Gala

Stories from Our Clients, Volunteers, and Staff

2022 Kids Can, Too! Award Winners – The Guthrie Kids

Client Success: 2022 Can Do! Award

Client Success: 2019 Can Do! Award

Client Success: 2018 Can Do! Award

Client Success: 2017 Can Do! Award

Volunteer Update

YOUR story

Wilkinson Center’s impact is only possible with the support of dedicated volunteers, donors, and staff, and through the hard work of our clients. Please share your own Wilkinson Center story using the link below. These stories and photos may be shared on our social media channels, at events, and on our website.

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    Our Mission Continues

    For 40 years, Wilkinson Center has been changing lives in Dallas County. Your gift will create a lasting impact as we continue to serve our neighbors for the next 40 years.

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