Acres of Angels

HOUSTON – African-American News & Issues presents Edna Griggs of, Acres of Angels as our profile of the week. Griggs hails from one of the most historical settlements in the Houston region, the Acres Homes community. Proud to be a resident of the area known throughout Texas as the “44”, Griggs describes Acres Homes as, “one of the first communities originally homesteaded by Blacks, and one of the largest Black communities in the United States.”
At an early age, Edna developed a love and passion for helping others. This desire in part was a result of her mother and grandmother, they instilled in her the values of being concerned of one’s fellow man. Her mother was a nurse and political activist.
She grew up watching her mother give of herself to others, as she would actively find employment for men within Harris County. If that wasn’t enough Edna recalls her grandmother feeding and housing those who were homeless. Her grandmother was a business owner in Acres Homes and had a sincere love for helping and inspiring others.
Griggs knows and understands the importance of African-Americans letting their voice be heard. Thus she serves as a political activist. She may be seen anytime there is an election going on in the community and/or around the city encouraging as many residents as she can to get out and vote.
She has also worked alongside many individuals pursuing public office as well as current politicians with their campaigns.
Edna is very involved in her community and is considered the Acres Homes activist for seniors and young people. So much so that she has formed an organization that is geared toward rebuilding the community. She is the CEO of Acres of Angels. She has also adopted the Chelsea Seniors Apartments Health Fair and moonwalk for the families at Lincoln Park. For six years, Griggs hosted a ‘Mardi Gras’ party and contributed most of the proceeds to Texas Children Hospital towards children living with disabilities.
She is also the CEO of Edna’s Social and Charity Club (The Rebirth). This was an organization that was originally birthed by her grandmother in the 1950’s. It was designed to help people living in poverty and help build self esteem.
Among her affiliations and memberships are: Chief Steward, Executive Board Member, Coalition of Labor Womenmember, legislative committee member with Communication Workers of America (CWA) and also on the City of Houston Commission Board for Keep Houston Beautiful. She is also involved with AT&T Community NetAT&T Women Group, AT&T Pioneers and is a leader with the HBAD Democrats, a political organization and Texas Democratic Women. Additionally she plays an active role with Project Power (a committee created by American Diabetes Association to educate African-Americans about the danger of diabetes) and the American Heart Association. To that regard, she is also living with Diabetes and has become an activist in this effort to help find a cure.
To date, she has received several awards for her community involvement throughout the years, such as: awards from Mayor Lee P. Brown, Mayor Bill White, proclamations from Council Member Jerry Davis and Mayor Annise Parkerand her latest; Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee’s office for getting the Acres Homes Multi Center Seniors a digital flat screen television and cable donated by Best Buy and Comcast. She has also been featured in the Women Day Magazine living with Diabetes.
Edna is a member of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Edwin A. Davis. Within Galilee she has assisted with health fairs as a means of promoting good health for members and affiliates of her church family. She has been employed with AT&T for over 42 years and has three wonderful children, three grandchildren, one sister and one niece.
For more information about Acres of Angels and Edna’s Social and Charity Club (The Rebirth) contact (713) 688-5290, (713) 594-0056 or email, ednagriggs@sbcglobal.net

Latest Articles

NEED PAST ISSUES?

Search our archive of past issues Receive our Latest Updates
 
* indicates required

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

Scroll to Top
Search