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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.
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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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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
Learn why economic security can be out of reach for families that live above the poverty line
Jessica Davison,
Blog | Economic Opportunity
Understanding Houston chronicles the creation of Fort Bend County’s first Community Health Assessment and Health Improvement Plan.
Fort Bend County Health and Human Services,
Blog | Community Context | Health | Housing