'It Starts Here': Harris County Public Health Leads National Public Health Week 2025 with Focus on Equity, Access, and Community Resilience
As communities across the nation observe National Public Health Week (NPHW) from April 7–13, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is joining the movement with a message that’s both timely and vital: “It Starts Here.” This year’s theme, designated by the American Public Health Association, emphasizes the foundational role public health plays in our everyday lives—often in ways the public may not realize.
For HCPH, NPHW is more than an observance—it’s a call to action and an opportunity to shine a light on the many programs that work behind the scenes to protect and improve the health of Harris County residents.
“Public health isn’t just about responding to disease outbreaks,” said Rahbe Simmons, M.Ed, Director of the Office of Public Health Advancement for HCPH. “It’s about building healthier environments, increasing access to care, and creating systems that ensure every resident, regardless of zip code, has the opportunity to live a healthy life.”
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Addressing Health Inequities and Expanding Access
Many residents are unaware that HCPH offers a comprehensive range of public health services—from free preventive health screenings and childhood vaccinations to mental health resources, food security programs, and environmental health protections. These initiatives are designed with equity at their core, ensuring underserved and vulnerable communities are not left behind.
“We’re working every day to reduce health disparities and improve access to care across Harris County,” Simmons explained. “Our goal is to ensure that all residents have access to the information, services, and support they need to thrive—physically, mentally, and socially.”
Bringing Climate, Advocacy, and Workforce into Focus
Throughout NPHW, HCPH will spotlight daily themes that tackle today’s most pressing public health issues, including climate action, health equity, community advocacy, and the future of the public health workforce.
One often-overlooked aspect of public health is its connection to environmental change. HCPH’s climate resilience and disaster preparedness efforts are increasingly vital in a region facing more frequent extreme weather events.
“Climate change is a health issue,” said Simmons. “From air quality to flood response, we are proactively preparing our communities to stay safe and resilient.”
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Investing in the Future of Public Health
HCPH is also focused on nurturing the next generation of public health professionals by investing in education, workforce development, and diversity in health leadership. Building a strong, inclusive workforce is crucial to meeting the unique needs of Harris County’s rapidly growing and diverse population.
“Our team is passionate, skilled, and rooted in the communities we serve,” Simmons added. “But we know that to keep up with evolving challenges, we need to empower new voices and future leaders in public health.”
Get Involved and Stay Informed
As part of the 2025 National Public Health Week celebrations, HCPH encourages residents to get involved—whether by advocating for healthier policies, participating in local health initiatives, or simply spreading awareness about public health services available in their neighborhoods.
“Every person has a role to play in public health,” said Simmons. “Whether you’re supporting a neighbor, attending a community event, or learning about resources we offer, it all starts with awareness—and that awareness starts here.”
To learn more about HCPH’s year-round public health initiatives and how to get involved, visit hcphtx.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
