They don’t carry badges or guns. Instead, Harris County’s RISE outreach workers say one of their most important tools is their own past. KPRC 2 rode along with Parker and other members of the RISE team through north Harris County to see how the program works as county leaders consider putting millions more toward community-based public safety programs.

...after years of hustling on the streets of Houston’s South Park neighborhood, Carrington traded his weapons and dope for a purple polo shirt designating him as a “credible messenger” for Harris County Public Health’s RISE team. The acronym stands for Relentless Interruptors Serving Everyone, and its outreach specialists conduct hospital interventions, community workshops, and neighborhood engagement to reduce cycles of gun violence and trauma. Taxpayers have funded the RISE program to the tune of about $1.9 million annually since 2022, but most people don’t know it exists until they find themselves in a situation where they need it.

Harris County commissioners approved fee increases for the county Pet Wellness Clinic during its business court meeting Aug. 25. The increases will impact spay and neutering services, vaccinations, heartworm and flea prevention medicines and nail trimming, among others. Spaying will increase 212% for dogs and 87% for cats, bringing starting costs to $125 and $75, respectively. Neutering will increase 150% for dogs and 50% for cats, bringing starting costs to $100 and $60, respectively.

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is encouraging men to take an active role in their health by learning about their risk for prostate cancer and talking with a healthcare provider about screening.

August is National Water Quality Month, an opportunity to highlight the importance of safe drinking water and encourage the community to take simple steps to protect one of our most essential resources. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) reminds community members that protecting
drinking water begins at home, and that everyone has a role to play in preventing water contamination and reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses.

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) proudly joins communities across the nation in celebrating National Breastfeeding Month this August, declared on August 6, 2011, by the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee (USBC). This year's theme, "RISE: Resilience, Interdependence, Self-Determination, Empowerment", celebrates the strength and unity of organizations across the nation in promoting strong breastfeeding practices and support systems.