Partners Collaborate to Support Healthier Community in Third Ward

The University of Houston has joined forces with various community partners in the Third Ward Community Health Collaborative (TWCHC) to address health challenges faced by Houstonians within the historic neighborhood. Linda Civallero, director of community outreach for the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, emphasized the importance of equal participation among partners, stating, "It’s important that everyone has an equal voice in this effort."

The collaborative recently received grants totaling $310,000 from the Episcopal Health Foundation to enhance organizational effectiveness, build capacity of nonprofit organizations, and prioritize community health initiatives. Civallero expressed confidence that the grants and collaborative efforts will lead to a sustainable and impactful TWCHC, benefiting community members directly.

Civallero highlighted the diverse expertise of the partner coalitions within TWCHC, including areas such as mental health, comprehensive health, and community initiatives. The collaborative aims to address various factors affecting residents, from transportation needs to mental health and health risks faced by seniors, ultimately empowering both organizations and citizens to take action.

The involvement of the University of Houston and the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine in TWCHC complements existing initiatives in the Third Ward. These include the Household-Centered Care Program, which integrates students in medicine, social work, and nursing to address non-medical health drivers, as well as the Community Health Workers Initiative that trains individuals to advocate for a healthier community.

Civallero emphasized the importance of building trust within the community and leveraging resources and expertise to improve health outcomes in the Third Ward. She stated, "Building health equity is only possible in collaboration with residents and community leaders."