The Gulf Coast of Texas is no stranger to disaster. Still, with an uptick in hurricanes, tropical storms, and catastrophic events like the winter storm of 2021, Houston needs support to mitigate crises more than ever. With funding from The Allstate Foundation through LISC, the nonprofit Houston ToolBank has continued empowering organizations across Southeast Texas with the tools they need to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. Through its Tool Lending Program, the nonprofit maintains an inventory of 300+ tools and equipment—everything from hammers and miter saws to portable AC units, generators, and event supplies like tables and projectors. For disaster-related efforts, borrowing fees are waived entirely, making critical resources accessible at no cost during emergencies. With support from LISC and The Allstate Foundation, Houston ToolBank has expanded partnerships, leading to opportunities like hosting a disaster preparedness training with a local organization. In 2024 alone, Houston ToolBank estimates it has impacted more than 14,000 people through disaster-related programs, providing the critical tools and resources needed to rebuild homes and lives. Houston LISC (fb)

LISC’s newly released Policy Priorities examines key federal community development policies for the 119th Congress and the administration. We detail the programs that make it possible to drive local economic development and empower families to achieve financial independence, including initiatives to address our national housing crisis; boost small businesses; and expand access to #healthcare and #childcare. We invite you to read the report and join us in this work to help ensure that investments from the federal government drive economic prosperity for families and communities: https://www.lisc.org/our-stories/story/liscs-policy-priorities-for-2025-2026-amid-economic-uncertainty-the-groundwork-for-growth/ (fb)