Panel talks revitalization in the Fifth Ward

“Habitat is only building one house a year in the Fifth Ward, but it’s really about the excitement they bring with their new design,” Emerson said. “They help show what housing could be like there and serve as almost a demonstration project to the neighborhood.”

Rice Habitat for Humanity member Juan Hernandez said attending the meeting both opened his eyes to the true nature of the situation in the Fifth Ward and inspired him to continue his volunteer work there.

“Hearing the numbers about the Fifth Ward are both encouraging and discouraging at the same time,” Hernandez, a Will Rice College junior, said. “Really, though, it’s encouraging because it shows clubs like Habitat for Humanity how much effort they have to give to restore the Fifth Ward and other areas in Houston.”