Understanding Houston

Did you know, the zip code you live in can determine how long you may live? 👇 An analysis by Episcopal Health Foundation reveals a 21-year gap in life expectancy between Houston neighborhoods. 📊 In the Sunnyside community, less than five miles southeast of the Texas Medical Center, life expectancy is only 66 years, comparable to countries like Rwanda and Pakistan. Meanwhile, in Bellaire, just five miles west of the Medical Center, residents enjoy a much higher average life expectancy of 87 years. This stark contrast highlights the vast health disparities within a short 15-minute drive in Houston. Read more here 👉 https://lnkd.in/ggSYjgUz

🚨 Houston Headlines 🚨 🌪️ A rare derecho swept through, marking the fifth in Texas in 40 years, causing deadly winds, eight fatalities, and widespread power outages. Kudos to the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance for their crucial support and recovery efforts! #HoustonStrong 🚀 The University of Houston lands a $5M NASA grant for an aerospace engineering research center to boost local space innovation and create high-skilled jobs. Houston's space legacy continues to soar! #SpaceCity #Innovation 🏡 Despite challenges, nearly 80% of Houstonians see homeownership as a wealth path. The 2024 Kinder State of Housing Report shows rising costs but also highlights growth in diverse communities. #HousingHouston #CommunityGrowth

If you could choose ONE thing to make Houston a better city, which would it be? Comment your pick, and tell us why it matters to you! 🌆👇 #Houston #HoustonStrong #HoustonCommunity

On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, the Greater Houston Community Foundation hosted a learning event focused on cradle-to-career systems that provide comprehensive support for children from infancy to adulthood. Moderated by Sara Martinez, the event featured Josh Davis of StriveTogether, who shared national trends virtually, and included local leaders Justin Fuentes of The Tejano Center, Abby Mayer of The Commit Partnership The Commit Partnership, and Cary Wright of Good Reason Houston. These experts discussed key elements required for successful implementation of a cradle-to-career strategy. Key themes included: Holistic support for families, evidence and data must guide decision-making, long-term partners and investments are crucial, clear and Measurable Goals and Roles. To read the full article visit: https://lnkd.in/dBdYGtj5

In Houston, diversity is our best asset. With over 140 languages spoken here and a melting pot of countries, cultures and cuisines represented, we're a big city with a strong sense of local community. With opportunities abound, Houston embodies innovation and progress, driven by our "can-do" spirit and a commitment to growth. Visit Understanding Houston to learn more about Houston's strengths and opportunities throughout our region. (Greater Houston Community Foundation) (@katedfowler) #Houston #HouTX #HoustonDiversity #CommunityUnity #InnovationHub

Houston has faced 26 federally declared disasters in the past 50 years. With up to 12 major hurricanes predicted this year, enhancing disaster preparedness is crucial. Over 3.4 million residents in Harris, Fort Bend, and Montgomery counties are in areas highly vulnerable to disasters. We need robust strategies to protect our most at-risk communities. The Greater Houston Disaster Alliance, a partnership between Greater Houston Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Houston, is committed to rapid, equitable disaster response and sustainable recovery. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient region. #DisasterPreparedness #HoustonStrong

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks when the last enslaved people in Texas were freed. This day symbolizes freedom, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality. Celebrate Juneteenth, a day of freedom and resilience! Did you know that Juneteenth holds special significance in our region? As the birthplace of one of the earliest Juneteenth celebrations, Houston's legacy in honoring emancipation runs deep. Juneteenth's spirit of freedom resonates strongly in our diverse and vibrant city, reminding us of the enduring quest for liberty. Looking to immerse yourself in the Juneteenth experience? Explore the array of events happening throughout Houston! Visit https://lnkd.in/gchwr2C3 to discover everything from family-friendly gatherings to cultural performances. Let's come together to honor the journey of freedom and commemorate the spirit of Juneteenth. @juneteenthhouston #Juneteenth #Houston #Freedom #Equality

Dive deep into the world of data with ALICE! Join us, alongside United Way of Greater Houston and Greater Houston Community Foundation, for an immersive journey into the heart of data and disaster recovery. Don't miss out on this captivating experience! Register now: https://lnkd.in/dvzTPqhq #DataAndDish #ALICE #DisasterRecovery

Did you know? 💡 Harris County has the lowest homeownership rate in our region at 55%, compared to 74% and 79% in Montgomery and Fort Bend counties, respectively. Only 23% of homeowners in our three-county region spend 30% or more of their income on housing costs, significantly lower than renters. 🏠 About 1 in 5 homeowners are housing cost-burdened, compared to a staggering 1 in 2 renters. 🏡 Even more alarming, 1 in 4 renters spend 50% or more of their income on housing costs, highlighting the challenges many face in affording a home. With stagnant wages, soaring rents, and inflated housing prices, the dream of homeownership can seem increasingly out of reach for many. Learn more about the importance of affordable housing here: https://lnkd.in/g9eDcv8Q. #Homeownership #AffordableHousing #HarrisCounty

Poverty and ALICE Threshold—Houston is one of the wealthiest cities in the world, yet it ranks 50th in economic inclusion out of 54 U.S. metro areas. Yet, about 14% of Houston's population lives below the federal poverty line. Additionally, 33% of households are classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), meaning they earn above the poverty level but still struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare. Economic Hardship—Combining those in poverty and ALICE households, nearly half (47%) of Houston's residents struggle to cover basic expenses. This highlights a significant economic divide, with many people unable to benefit from the city's overall wealth. Pathways to Economic Security—Greater Houston Community Foundation's High-Impact Grantmaking initiative will invest in holistic strategies that aim to improve economic mobility for children and families. Exploring the depths of Houston's economic landscape reveals both challenges and opportunities. Dive deeper into the initiatives driving change at ghcf.org and UnderstandingHouston.org. Greater Houston Community Foundation #EconomicInsights #HoustonCommunity