For people of color faith institutions have a long history of serving as the epicenter for dealing with all manner of issues. That reality has lessened dramatically over the decades for various reasons. But with access to affordable housing becoming more challenging in Houston, especially for diverse populations, faith communities are being called upon once again to take the lead in providing solutions.
Houston City Councilwoman Dr. Tiffany Thomas (District F) is clear on the challenge.
“Housing affordability is a pressing issue both nationally and here in Houston,” said Thomas. “Our city has long been known for its affordability, but without creating more housing inventory and expanding partnerships, we risk losing that advantage for the average resident.”
From Thomas’s perspective, religious institutions are key.
“Faith communities hold a significant amount of underutilized land, and I want to offer faith leaders a pathway to reimagine their mission in the post-COVID era. By working with the City of Houston, they can take a leading role in providing real, faith-driven solutions to our housing challenges while staying true to their values.”
To facilitate her vision Thomas’s District F Office is hosting a “Faith and Affordable Housing Summit” on Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at First Methodist Houston (10570 Westpark Dr., Houston 77042).
And something must be done locally because the affordable housing struggle is real.
At 17.8% below the national average, Houston’s housing costs are the second most affordable among the most populous U.S. metros, according to the C2ER Cost of Living Index 2023 Annual Average. Furthermore, housing costs in Houston are 84.7% below the average of the most populous U.S. metros.
However, according to a national report released by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the Houston metro area is one of the worst in the country when it comes to affordable housing options for its lowest-income households – households that are often seeking ways to transition from renters to homeowners.
Moreover, homeownership rates in Houston’s three-county region have not budged from what they were about a decade ago, and they remain disproportionately low among low-income and non-white households.
Diverse Participants
Hence, Thomas’s call to action to a diverse group of religious communities, including those from Black, Latino, and AAPI communities, be they Christian, Muslim or of a different faith tradition.
Scheduled attendees include Pastor Hernan Castaño, Rivers of Oil Church (Iglesia Rios de Aceite); Daniel Williams, Church Without Walls Eldridge; Rev. Rhett Caviel, McGee Chapel; and Zahoor Gire, Al-Noor Mosque, among others.
“Houston has made great strides in addressing homelessness through the collaboration of local government, businesses, and community organizations,” said Gire. “Al-Noor Mosque is proud to be part of this effort, participating in the affordable housing summit because we believe in the importance of strong communities taking care of those most in need, including new immigrants to America.”
Gire said Al-Noor Mosque’s summit involvement is about ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to stable housing, which is critical for building secure and thriving neighborhoods.
“This aligns with our core values of responsibility, compassion, and helping people regain their footing in difficult times. By joining this summit, we’re advocating for housing policies that promote stability and provide practical solutions. As a faith-based organization, we see value in bringing together local resources to address housing needs and strengthen our community’s future. As a key community stakeholder working together with other stakeholders, we can ensure Houston remains a city where everyone has a chance to live in safety and dignity.”
Candice Lovett’s Testimony
Candice Lovett, a District F resident who plans to attend the District F-led summit, recognizes homeownership as “the most significant pathway to building generational wealth” for Blacks and other people of color.
And she knows from experience.
“When I moved to Houston in 2016 with just my clothes, shoes, and a TV, owning a home seemed like a distant dream. But once I took that step, I realized that it wasn’t just about having a place to live—it was about creating stability and building equity that could impact my future. For many of us, owning property has been historically inaccessible, but today, it represents a powerful tool for economic empowerment.”
Lovett hopes summit attendees walk away from the event with a renewed sense of hope and possibility.
“As someone who entered the home-buying process with no knowledge or guidance from my family, I understand firsthand how challenging it can be to start over in a new place, especially when housing options seem out of reach. But I also know the power of perseverance and community support. I want attendees to feel empowered to advocate for themselves and others, recognizing that affordable housing isn’t just about shelter—it’s about creating stability, opportunities, and a foundation for a better future,” added Lovett.
Additional Summit
And apparently, something is in the air, because Thomas’s event is not the only homeownership summit happening on Oct. 12.
The “Mapping Your Way to Homeownership Real Estate Summit” at Bethel’s Empowerment Center (12660 Sandpiper Dr., Houston 77035) from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. seeks to connect potential homeowners “with caring real estate agents and financial planners at our summit who are dedicated to helping you find a home that fits your budget and dreams.” This event advertises that attendees can possibly receive up to $150,000 towards the purchase of a house. Register atwww.churchrealestatesummit.com.
