Join us in prayer and stand with the DeSoto County Dream Center as we lift up our community, staff, and programs—because the power of prayer transforms lives and opens doors for hope and impact.

Delayne Morris has been a faithful and impactful volunteer in the education program, helping lay the foundation for what students experience today. As a retired teacher, she brings both structure and compassion, creating a space where students feel seen, supported, and encouraged to grow—not just academically, but personally. Driven by a heart for ministry, Delayne loves using her gifts to serve and values the immediate impact she can see in students’ lives. As the Dream Center expands into Olive Branch, she’s excited to continue serving her own community and helping the program grow.

Executive Director, Jenna Kern, shares the deeper story behind the Dream Center’s impact—one not just measured in numbers, but in transformed lives. From children receiving weekend meals to families finding hope and stability, every moment of impact is made possible by a community that chooses to show up consistently. As the Dream Center prepares to expand its reach with a new Olive Branch campus, this work continues to grow in both need and the opportunity to partner in the life change happening.

What started as a simple intention—to get to know neighbors—has grown into a powerful movement of consistent, relational impact across DeSoto County. Through Adopt-A-Block, volunteers are showing up month after month, building trust, sharing meals, and meeting real needs. Stories like Ms. Tina’s and the unexpected friendship between a young boy and his neighbor highlight how lasting relationships are transforming communities from the inside out. This is more than outreach—it’s neighbors becoming family.

After more than 15 years of serving DeSoto County, the Dream Center is stepping into an exciting new chapter by expanding it’s reach and opening of a second location in Olive Branch. What began as a vision to better serve families on the east side of the county quickly became a story of perfect timing—through generous support and the Lord’s provision of a new facility. This new campus will bring critical resources like food assistance, educational programs, and community outreach closer to families in need on the other end of the county. More than just a new building, the Olive Branch Dream Center represents a growing commitment to invest in the next generation and ensure that every neighbor has the support they need to thrive.

The DeSoto County Dream Center’s 2025 Impact Report tells a powerful story of what happens when compassion meets action—and when a community comes together to serve. Inside, you’ll find more than numbers. You’ll discover stories of students growing in confidence, families receiving nourishment and care during times of crisis, neighbors experiencing dignity restored, and lives touched by Christ’s love.

Hope looks like a child leaving school with a backpack of food, a parent relieved to feed their family, and a teacher knowing her students are supported. With more than 18,000 students in DeSoto County coming from low-income families, the need is great - and Title I funds don’t cover basic necessities like food, clothing, or healthcare. Hear more about the needs in DeSoto County specifically within Title 1 Schools from Executive Director, Jenna Kern. Learn more about where the Dream Center steps in, filling the gaps through backpacks, closets, education, and healthcare. Together, we’re restoring hope and helping families dream again.

For Tiffany and Steven Pickel, serving with their daughters started with stocking shelves - but it’s become so much more. Whether packing toys and snacks for Adopt-a-Block or ensuring trailers are ready for outreach, the Pickels are proof that faithful behind-the-scenes service creates lasting impact. Their story shows how families can grow together while serving others, and how small, humble acts of love make a big difference.

When children are hungry, lack clothing, or face instability at home, learning becomes almost impossible. The Dream Center partners with Title I schools to meet urgent needs through programs like the DREAM Backpack and DREAM Closet, while also investing in students’ long-term growth through education and leadership support. Principals, parents, and students are seeing the difference: dignity is restored, classrooms thrive, and families find stability. By meeting needs today, we’re preparing a stronger generation for tomorrow.