HOUSTON – Two days before Thanksgiving, a Houston family who lost their house due to Hurricane Harvey turned the key and unlocked the door to their brand-new home. Thanks to several nonprofit agencies, including Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (FWCRC), Bayou City Relief, and BuildAid Houston, with the added help from David Weekley Homes, the McCrimmon family happily returned to their Fifth Ward neighborhood, just in time for the holidays.
“We are extremely excited that we were able to get this family back into a house in time for the holidays,” says Kathy Flanagan Payton CEO and president of the FWCRC. “This family, like countless others, has faced several hurdles relative to recovery. After two years, it will be good for them to finally have a home again to resume building memories for years to come.”
After Hurricane Harvey, the McCrimmon family was able to get help cleaning and gutting their original house, but the family was left without a viable place to live. They turned to Bayou City Relief, an agency backed by Bayou City Fellowship. Once the organization understood the extent of the destruction to the McCrimmon house, they began to seek other partners. That is how FWCRC, BuildAid Houston, and David Weekley Homes became involved.
After a few meetings, the community partners determined it was more financially sound to tear the original house down and build a new structure. An average investment of $35,000 cash or in-kind, by each partner made this new home possible, at no cost to the family.
“We are thankful that this collaboration of partners said ‘yes’ because saying ‘no’ was the easier option,” said Colleen Henneke, Director of Bayou City Relief.
“The building of this home is a model of how the faith-based community, the redevelopment community, disaster relief, and for-profit developers collaborated to help those in need,” Payton said. “As the project leaders would say, ‘We’re Houston Strong’”
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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.
“We are extremely excited that we were able to get this family back into a house in time for the holidays,” says Kathy Flanagan Payton CEO and president of the FWCRC. “This family, like countless others, has faced several hurdles relative to recovery. After two years, it will be good for them to finally have a home again to resume building memories for years to come.”
