News Summary
Texas Southern University has launched the Institute for Urban Public Health and Housing to tackle health disparities in Houston’s Third Ward. This institute aims to improve health outcomes through research, community outreach, and essential services, supported by a $2 million grant. The initiative responds to health inequities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes a commitment to serving an underserved community. Located in the renovated W.R. Banks Child Development Center, the institute seeks to empower local residents and promote equity in health care access.
Houston is set to benefit from a new initiative aimed at tackling health disparities, as Texas Southern University (TSU) has officially launched its Institute for Urban Public Health and Housing. This institute, located in the renovated W.R. Banks Child Development Center, will focus on improving health outcomes in Houston’s Third Ward, a community that has been disproportionately affected by health inequities.
The launch of the institute is supported by a $2 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration. This funding was secured by the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who was a long-time advocate for the Third Ward and was instrumental in the establishment of the institute. The announcement of this funding was made in 2023 by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries alongside Jackson Lee. The goal of the institute is to create an example for impoverished communities nationwide, showcasing effective approaches to public health challenges.
This initiative comes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which starkly exposed the existing health disparities faced by communities of color. Research highlights the correlation between poverty, limited access to healthcare, lack of education, systemic racism, and adverse health outcomes. A 2019 needs assessment conducted by Rice University’s Baker Institute revealed that only 68% of residents in the Third Ward had health insurance, significantly lower than the national average of 92%. Furthermore, residents in this area experience higher rates of conditions including asthma, diabetes, neck problems, hypertension, and various mental health issues compared to national averages.
The W.R. Banks building ultimately spans 6,000 square feet and is strategically located across from Cuney Homes, a historic public housing complex. This newly established facility will serve as a community resource, offering conference space, workforce training rooms, wellness and clinical care areas, a food pantry, and a technology-equipped multipurpose center. TSU officials emphasize that the institute intends to integrate research initiatives, community outreach efforts, workforce training programs, wellness services, and K-12 mentoring to effectively address the diverse needs of the Third Ward community.
The executive director of the African American Health Coalition commented on the project’s potential to empower the community, marking a significant turning point in the partnership between TSU and local organizations. The institute aims to play a vital role in overcoming health care access challenges that have been intensified by the pandemic, providing essential resources and services to enhance overall health for local residents.
The establishment of the Institute for Urban Public Health and Housing at TSU is expected to catalyze substantial improvements in health equity within Houston’s Third Ward. As the institute opens its doors to the community, it signifies a commitment to fostering better health outcomes and addressing the systemic issues that have long plagued this historically underserved area.
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
