Good morning, Houston. I’m Morgan Riley, and here’s the word on the streets of Houston today.
We start with a major story affecting thousands of families across our city. Over 18,000 Houston families are currently on the waitlist for affordable housing vouchers, according to the Houston Housing Authority. This week, the agency announced that starting May 1st, all families on the list need to update their applications to maintain or improve their position. The move comes as new rent relief initiatives are rolled out, offering hope to families seeking stability in a city that’s seen rapid population growth and rising rents. In a place as dynamic and diverse as Houston, ensuring access to safe, affordable housing remains one of our most pressing challenges. For those affected, the Housing Authority is urging prompt action—if you’re on the list, don’t let this chance slip by.
Word on the streets of Houston is also sounding alarms over student safety. Residents near Sam Houston High School on the north side are worried about a recent surge in students leaving campus during school hours. Multiple videos have surfaced of violent confrontations just off school property, sparking calls for increased supervision and safety measures. This story is a reminder of how student wellbeing touches every neighborhood, and it’s sparking both concern and community dialogue about the best path forward.
Let’s pivot to a more uplifting note and spotlight a local hero: Maria Alvarez, owner of East End Cafe, who’s been serving up homemade tamales and hope for over twenty years. Last weekend, Maria organized a neighborhood cookout to raise funds for local youth programs—a gesture that brought together families, police officers, and volunteers over steaming plates and heartfelt conversation. Maria’s story reflects the spirit that keeps Houston resilient through good times and bad: neighbors supporting neighbors, one meal at a time.
Looking ahead, Houstonians can expect partly cloudy skies today, with highs in the upper seventies and a slight chance of afternoon showers—typical spring weather for our side of Texas. This weekend, the annual Bayou Art Festival returns downtown, featuring local artists, food trucks, and live performances. If you’re a sports fan, the Astros are back home for a three-game series at Minute Maid Park—classic Houston excitement meets contemporary talent.
As we wrap up, I’m reminded that the stories shaping our city—housing, safety, kindness, and art—are connected by our shared drive to build a better Houston, together. No matter which corner of the city you call home, we’re all neighbors working towards progress and possibility.
This has been Morgan Riley, your neighbor in the news. Subscribe now so you never miss a Houston news update. For more information, send me an email at
[email protected] or visit our website at Quiet Please dot AI. Have a great day, Houston.