The Health Equity Collective (HEC) is a multisector effort addressing the social determinants of health through systemic and policy solutions across the Greater Houston region. The collective includes more than 1,300 members representing 325+ organizations and 50+ coalitions across Houston and Harris County.

We co-chair the HEC’s Social Determinants of Health Policy Workgroup and serve on the Steering Committee. Through the policy workgroup, we build collaboration among members, elevate evidence-informed policy opportunities, connect advocates working on shared legislative priorities, and support learning and coordination around key legislation and advocacy efforts at the local and state levels. As part of this work, we also respond to federal policy developments that affect Texans—such as threats to Medicaid and SNAP—helping members understand the implications for local communities and align advocacy strategies across levels of government.

The HEC’s priority areas include:

• Food security
• Maternal health and reproductive care
• Mental health
• Community health workers and doulas
• Healthcare coverage and access