Dallas

Community Rallies for Change in Wake of Young Mother's Death

In a small church just a block down from the store where a young mother was fatally shot while working as a clerk, the community gathered to talk about support for the family and to call for change.

Monique Simmons, 27, was working in the East Oak Cliff Dollar General store Monday evening when a person walked in with a gun, demanded money and then shot her. Police announced Thursday that a 15-year-old was arrested in connection with the woman's death.

Local pastors brought their congregations together Thursday at Calvary Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Church.

"This neighborhood is infested with so much, but we can't run from the problem. We need to deal with the problem," said Pastor Joe Moore.

The event was organized in part by Kessler Heights activist Pat Ford.

Ford, who uses non-profit Dallas Community Fellowship to bring about change in the community, helped organize the event to support a family she has come to know well over the last couple of years.

"She lives where I work. She's volunteered at our center. Her kids are there every day. She's been there. We've been… it's like family," Ford said.

Ford says pleas made to the city for help and resources in a neighborhood she claims is plagued by crime and poverty have not been received.

"It's time to stop covering up what needs to be done for our community. We need help," Ford said.

Several of the community's pastors have pledged to make their case to city council in coming days. Many weren't surprised a juvenile could've been responsible for Simmons' death. They say crime is just one of several problems plaguing the neighborhood.

"People are hungry, sleeping on the corners, they're at the stores begging. I mean, there's a lot of stuff going on this neighborhood," Moore said.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by Simmons' family to help cover funeral costs. Dallas Community Fellowship is also taking donations for the family. Monetary donations or items like food, diapers or toiletries can be dropped off at 3015 E. Ledbetter Street in Dallas. You can also call 972-464-7553 or 929-428-9366.

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