Urban Disparity

Financial insecurity plaguing families could cost Houston millions

Despite month after month of strong jobs reports and an economy seen as robust by most analysts, many families in Houston are struggling to make ends meet and afford basic household necessities.

Public libraries are the crazy, radical ideas that might save society

In his Kinder Institute Forum talk, sociologist Eric Klinenberg discussed the amazing power of the public library system, as well as the biggest threats to this vital and sorely neglected part of America's social infrastructure.

How the Third Ward is fighting the 'effects of unchecked gentrification'

When Pamela Ramirez relocated to Houston in 2014 to pursue her career in public service with Harris County, she purchased her first car and began looking for a place to rent. While on HAR.com searching for rental property, she found a listing for a single-family home with a mortgage payment in her rental range. Ramirez took a deep breath and decided to explore.

Partnerships and student cohort expanded for 2019-2020 Community Bridges Program

This Kinder Institute program pairs undergraduate students with community-based nonprofits to conduct research and alleviate poverty in Houston.

Urban tree distribution reveals neighborhood inequalities within cities, including Houston

In a city notorious for rain, heat and humidity (and often all three at once), shade is a highly-coveted, heat-reprieving resource for all Houstonians. And yet, the presence of shade at times feels unequal depending on where you are in the city.