In a landmark step for community care in North Texas, the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) has announced the launch of the EPIC Community Services Center, marking a major expansion of its long-standing commitment to public service and social responsibility.
The ambitious 25,000-square-foot facility, located in the heart of downtown Plano, Texas, is designed to provide a comprehensive safety net for the region’s most vulnerable residents, regardless of faith, race, or background, Iqra.ca reported.
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The announcement was made during a special gathering at the masjid on December 11, bringing together interfaith partners, city officials, and leaders from local non-profit organisations.
Framing the initiative as a core expression of Islamic values, EPIC’s resident scholar Dr. Yasir Qadhi reflected on the spiritual foundation behind the project, citing the Qur’anic principle that inspires the work:
“They give food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, though they love it themselves, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the sake of God: we seek neither recompense nor thanks from you.’” (Qur’an 76:8-9).
A Sanctuary of Service
The EPIC Community Services Center is envisioned as a “one-stop shop” for individuals and families facing housing insecurity, poverty, and limited access to essential services.
By consolidating support under one roof, the initiative aims to restore dignity while meeting urgent community needs.
Planned services include transitional housing support for individuals working toward independence and a free medical clinic offering general health checkups, dental care, mental health support, and wound care—provided without cost or judgment.
The center will also feature a soup kitchen and food pantry serving hot meals and essential groceries, including culturally appropriate food options.
Additional facilities include clean, private shower spaces, a clothing closet offering weather-appropriate and professional attire, and a warming and cooling shelter to support those most at risk during North Texas’s extreme weather conditions.
Bridging Faiths
Although led by the Muslim community, the initiative is rooted in strong interfaith cooperation.
Representatives from the Plano Overnight Warming Shelter (POWS), the Collin County Homeless Coalition, and Hope Restored Mission joined EPIC leadership in celebrating the announcement.
“We represent different beliefs but one love,” said Diana, a representative from the POWS team.
Partners highlighted EPIC’s long-standing role in supporting the unhoused during winter months, noting that the new downtown facility will allow these services to operate year-round and address a long-standing gap in local infrastructure.
EPIC leaders confirmed that while the building has been secured, a major fundraising campaign is underway to finalize the purchase and begin operations.
A community fundraiser was held on December 20, alongside a call for volunteers, including medical professionals and community members.
“This is more than a project; it is a promise from all of us to all of Plano,” the center’s introductory video declared.
As housing insecurity continues to rise, the EPIC Community Services Center stands as a lasting commitment to service, dignity, and compassion in action.