Dear Friends,

Monday would have been the 82nd birthday of the late Congressman John Lewis. As our nation faces attacks on our democracy through extensive voter suppression legislation, I urge you to once again read Congressman Lewis' final words, which were published in The New York Times.

"Ordinary people with extraordinary vision can redeem the soul of America by getting in what I call good trouble, necessary trouble. Voting and participating in the democratic process are key. The vote is the most powerful nonviolent change agent you have in a democratic society. You must use it because it is not guaranteed. You can lose it," stated Congressman Lewis.

His words were not only meant to remind us of those who came before us in the fight for a true democracy, in which participation is not limited by the color of one's skin or gender or income, but also to encourage us to continue fighting for a nation that makes every effort possible to allow our democracy to flourish.

With his words in mind, I urge all eligible voters to use  "the most powerful nonviolent change agent"  in the March 1 primary. Early voting ends tomorrow, Friday, February 25 and election day is Tuesday, March 1. You still have time to have your voice heard. Visit HarrisVotes.com to find your nearest polling location.

HELPING OUR MOST VULNERABLE NEIGHBORS

The pandemic has made it perfectly clear that our community is only as healthy as our most vulnerable neighbors. Together, we must lift those who need our help the most. In doing so, our entire community benefits. Harris County approved the funding for three programs: one to help those experiencing homelessness, and two benefiting Harris County children.

Community-Wide COVID-19 Housing Program

All residents deserve quality, accessible and affordable housing regardless of their income or location. However, almost 4,000 Harris County residents experience homelessness on any given night.

Last month, Harris County Commissioners Court doubled down on our commitment to families without shelter by investing up to $29.5 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to Phase 2 of the  Community-Wide COVID-19 Housing Program. The County's initial $20 million investment in Phase 1 of the collaboration with the City of Houston and the Coalition for the Homeless has already provided housing and supportive services to over 7,000 people.

With these historic investments we are helping Harris County move closer to ending “chronic homelessness” while also being recognized nationally for its strategic approach for program design. Learn more about the Community-Wide COVID-19 Housing Program and its outcomes.

Investing in Lead Abatement and Testing

All families deserve safe and healthy homes without the threat of lead exposure. This month, Commissioners Court approved a $20 million investment of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to expand testing lead levels in children under five and increase household lead abatement.

For the 19,000 Harris County children living below the poverty line and facing a higher risk for lead poisoning, this investment in Harris County Public Health's (HCPH) existing program will help to further reduce lead exposure. It is well documented that high blood lead levels in children cause brain and nervous system damage, learning and behavior challenges, and hearing and speech difficulties.

Using mobile testing units in affected neighborhoods, HCPH staff will identify more children with elevated lead levels and increase the number of lead-abated homes from 60 per year to 200 per year (233% increase).

Making a Difference for Children and Families

Every child should have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Studies show that early childhood education helps children reach their full potential and those with access to it receive life-long benefits from participating.

To help more than 100,000 low-income infants and toddlers in Harris County access early childhood development programs, Commissioners Court allocated almost $8 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for three organizations -- Texas Children's Hospital, First3Years, and The Alliance -- to serve 23,000 young children and their families.

Investing in these low-cost yet highly effective programs lower school drop out rates, healthcare costs, special education placements and reduce future engagement in crime or violence. Additionally, children who attend high quality preschools graduate from high school at higher rates and earn 25% more in their future careers.


Building a safe, strong and healthy community takes intentional and effective investments that promote equity, justice and opportunity for all. Every resident deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Sincerely,

Throughout February, Precinct One is celebrating the Black community’s rich history and contributions in our country by honoring local and national figures who have shattered ideas of what’s possible for Black people living in the wake of enslavement in this country.

While we are surrounded by Black history every day, these local and national trailblazers made it possible for others to follow in their footsteps.


Deloyd Parker | The Honorable Senfronia Thompson | U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris | Monica Roberts | The Honorable Barbara Jordan | John Guess III | Amanda Gorman | The Honorable Ada Edwards | Willie Belle Boone | Beulah Shepherd | Ida B. Wells | The Honorable Stacy Abrams

Finnigan Park is home to a new BCycle station that gives residents increased mobility throughout Fifth Ward. For $13 per month or $79 per year, residents receive unlimited 60-minute rides which make going to the store, exercising, or getting to work easier. Students and staff of local universities ride for even less, paying only $60 per year for unlimited 60-minute rides.

W. RICHEY ROAD EXPANSION: IMPROVING MOBILITY



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