Filter by

All

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.

hot Most Read

feed Most Recent

Building Pathways to Economic Mobility: The Role of Public Benefits

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 | Uncategorized

Economic Paradox: Booming Growth, Struggling Families

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. We must identify levers to ensure all can build on the foundation of our region's strong economy. Building savings, improving credit, and accessing quality jobs are crucial steps toward building a more financially resilient community.

Chelsea Cheung,

Blog | Economic Opportunity

Who can afford to live in Houston?

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

Doing what matters by measuring what matters

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

Fifth Ward Builds a New Library to Fight Illiteracy

More than one million Harris County residents are functionally illiterate, learn how libraries can help.

Robert Thomas,

Blog | Economic Opportunity | Education

5 Improvements to Understanding Houston

After two years of discovery and a year in development, the Understanding Houston website is refreshed and enhanced.

Understanding Houston,

Blog

Honoring Veterans: Shaping Our Future by Remembering Our Heroes

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

A Closer Look at Financial Hardship in the Houston Region

Learn why economic security can be out of reach for families that live above the poverty line

Jessica Davison,

Blog | Economic Opportunity

Fort Bend County Health and Human Services’ Journey toward a Community Health Assessment

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

Key Insights from The Big Picture | Montgomery County

Understanding Houston shares key data highlighting Montgomery County’s strengths and challenges at The Big Picture.

Kaitlin Necas,

Blog | Community Context