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According to new data from the United States Census Bureau, Houston is now the most impoverished major city in the nation, with one in five residents living at or below the Federal Poverty Level, and 39% of households in the Houston area face food insecurity , far exceeding the national average. When the federal government shuts down, the effects ripple far beyond Washington, D.C. - they reach into the lives of families, seniors, and communities that rely on essential public benefits to make ends meet.
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Understanding Houston articles offer analysis, perspective, and lived experience from a variety of authors including nonprofit leaders and researchers, among others. They do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Understanding Houston and/or the Greater Houston Community Foundation, but reflect our commitment to lifting up unique voices within the Houston community.
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According to new data from the United States Census Bureau, Houston is now the most impoverished major city in the nation, with one in five residents living at or below the Federal Poverty Level, and 39% of households in the Houston area face food insecurity , far exceeding the national average. When the federal government shuts down, the effects ripple far beyond Washington, D.C. - they reach into the lives of families, seniors, and communities that rely on essential public benefits to make ends meet.
Sara Martinez,
Blog | Civic Engagement | Economic Opportunity
Texas has seen three times the number of family violence deaths since 2017 with rates of family violence increasing across all three counties.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Community Context
Every year, thousands of Houstonians return home from prison ready for a second chance but are too often met with closed doors. Learn how Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) is supporting these individuals to transform lives, rebuild families, and strengthen the Houston region.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Community Context | Economic Opportunity
Nationally, 1 in 8 Americans live in poverty, and the rate is even higher in Harris County. Public benefits—such as housing and food/groceries assistance—have the potential to reduce poverty, provide financial stability, and create a foundation for economic mobility for individuals and families. Yet nearly $1 billion in benefits go unclaimed yearly in Harris County alone.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Economic Opportunity
Houston's thriving economy offers immense opportunity, yet over a million households struggle financially. Stagnant incomes and limited access to low-interest credit keep many trapped in debt. True financial security requires more than growth.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Economic Opportunity
Houston’s housing market is facing a crisis as skyrocketing rents and stagnant incomes make both homeownership and renting increasingly unaffordable. Explore how these challenges are reshaping the region and the implications for renters and aspiring homeowners.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Housing
Discover how Greater Houston Community Foundation’s Understanding Houston initiative has shaped data-driven action in our region through the Community Impact Fund.
Chelsea Cheung,
Blog | Community Context
More than one million Harris County residents are functionally illiterate, learn how libraries can help.
Robert Thomas,
Blog | Economic Opportunity | Education
After two years of discovery and a year in development, the Understanding Houston website is refreshed and enhanced.
Understanding Houston,
Blog
Recognize the valor of our veterans on November 11th and every day. Join us in a collective effort to honor their service and elevate their stories in Houston and beyond.
Cody McGregor,
Blog | Community Context | Community Voices