Unprecedented Times: Results in Community Outreach and Appreciation

Authored by The Howard Hughes Corporation

The impact of the unprecedented recent events that we have faced—the pandemic and Winter Storm Uri— have shown that our country, state and community must look squarely at the challenges we face, disaster preparedness, emergency management and critical infrastructure needs. The solutions may be big and complex, but together, we are up to the task.

The recent crises have shined a spotlight on Texas and our communities – The Woodlands, Bridgeland and The Woodlands Hills – and reinforced what is at our core: an incredible resiliency and spirit of both independence and selflessness.

During the recent storm, neighbors helped neighbors and strangers became friends, volunteering to help each other repair burst pipes, contain property damage and find needed shelter, warmth and food.

I witnessed countless moments of humanity and fortitude. As we continue to work and stand strong together, I have never been more inspired or more grateful to see all the ways that we have been rolling up our sleeves together,” said Heath Melton, Executive Vice President, Master Planned Communities, Residential for The Howard Hughes Corporation

As the winter storm wreaked havoc, residents and local businesses donated food and generous monetary contributions to assist those in need. Many local nonprofit organizations provided immediate assistance, and warming centers were opened throughout the counties and state.

Interfaith of The Woodlands began drive-thru food delivery and offered its emergency shelter program for displaced families who needed temporary housing. The Montgomery County Food Bank helped over 6,500 people with food and water through mobile distribution centers as well as helped supply local warming centers.

They were not alone! Many additional nonprofit organizations stepped forward throughout the state to lend a helping hand. Howard Hughes was fortunate to assist Montgomery County Precinct 3 Road and Bridge Crew in finding a hot meal in one of our locally owned hotels as they worked day and night to keep our roadways clear and as safe as possible.

Medical personnel, frontline and essential workers continued to play a critical role, caring for people who were left stranded and in need of critical assistance to help weather the winter cold, while also continuing to battle the fight against Covid.

As the pandemic continues to bring unprecedented times, our frontline workers and first responders remain heroes. Many of these essential personnel and volunteers are working tirelessly at state-designated Covid-19 vaccination distribution hubs.

During the pandemic, Howard Hughes provided community outreach efforts in the Houston region through its HHCares initiative, a corporate social responsibility program. They were able to help:

  • Provide nearly 1,500 meals for local hospital frontline workers
  • Provide food for first responders
  • Co-host with Woodforest National Bank a Texas National Guard Appreciation Dinner
  • Provide sweet treats to workers and volunteers at a state-designated vaccination hub
  • Continue to support over 130 causes of local charities financially and through volunteerism
  • Team members serve on 47 non-profit boards and 29 committees or associations

 

We are grateful for the heroes who have emerged during the pandemic and the winter storm. Our sense of responsibility and commitment to each other remains a natural resource,” said Melton. “Texas is a unique place to live with exceptional residents, and I am proud to call the Lone Star state home.”