Memorial Hermann Community Health and Fit Houston have joined forces to break down barriers and build a culture of wellness by bringing exercise opportunities directly into the Greater Gulfton community in southwest Houston.
“True health begins outside of a hospital. It is shaped before someone needs medical care and is built in our neighborhoods, parks and community spaces through simple, everyday activities,” said Ryane Jackson, MLA, vice president of Memorial Hermann Community Health. “Today we celebrate a new collaboration with Fit Houston and a mutual commitment to meet people where they are and empower them to take charge of their health with access to free fitness resources and more.”
The collaboration, announced at a community event in Burnett Bayland Park, complements Memorial Hermann Community Health’s ongoing Exercise is Medicine program, designed to provide underserved communities with health education and fun exercise activities to help improve health and reduce risk of chronic diseases. Fit Houston will lend its expertise and lead walking initiatives at Burnett Bayland Park in Gulfton. Programs are also offered at Highland/DeSoto Park in Houston’s Acres Homes neighborhood, Clark Park in north Houston, Alief Neighborhood Center and Forum Park in southwest Houston. All activities are free and open to the public.
“Memorial Hermann and Fit Houston share the belief that fitness is for everyone, and access to healthy active lifestyles should not depend on where you live or what resources you have,” said Fit Houston founder and executive director Lharissa Jacobs. “Together we will bring exercise and wellness opportunities directly to folks who reside in Gulfton.”
Exercise is Medicine is just one of several programs offered by Memorial Hermann Community Health to address health inequity in Harris County. According to Memorial Hermann’s recent Community Health Needs Assessment, individuals facing challenges such as limited education, unemployment, food insecurity or unstable housing are more likely to experience chronic conditions, delayed treatment and preventable hospitalizations. These barriers not only impact a person’s ability to maintain their health but also reduce their capacity to navigate the health care system.
“Healthy communities start with access, opportunity and connection. I’m grateful for our partnership with Memorial Hermann and Fit Houston to bring free fitness programs directly to the Gulfton community. At Precinct 4, we’re committed to expanding access to health and wellness,” said Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones.
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