Across rural South Texas, many families run into major roadblocks when it comes to getting healthcare, finding safe housing, and staying financially secure. About 17 percent of Texans live in spread-out rural counties where local doctors are hard to find, forcing families to drive hours just to see a specialist. Texas actually leads the nation with an uninsured rate of nearly 18 percent—and that number jumps above 25 percent in rural border counties. On top of high medical bills, up to 30 percent of homes in rural border communities face serious damage like leaking roofs, broken heating, or poor insulation, making it tough for families to stay safe and comfortable in their own spaces.
In these close-knit communities, simple physical access to homes and healthcare is an urgent issue. When you have to travel hours for a basic doctor’s visit, getting care can feel almost impossible for aging grandparents or residents with disabilities. Even worse, homes without wheelchair ramps or smooth walkways can trap people inside, turning everyday things like stepping outside or heading to an appointment into major safety hazards. At the same time, newly arrived refugee families entering the region often need a safe place to land, basic supplies, and a friendly face to welcome them as they start over. Local non-profits step up to fill these gaps, helping families live with independence, dignity, and peace of mind.
This summer, HXP Builders are heading to South Texas to team up with a local nonprofit that specializes in the construction of wheelchair ramps and a local Respite Center for two incredible service projects! Alongside this nonprofit, Builders will construct wooden wheelchair ramps, giving residents back their freedom and independence to move around safely. Builders will also serve at a local Respite Center that offers temporary shelter and care for newly arrived refugee families, helping with daily center tasks and welcoming guests with warm hospitality. By serving alongside local mentors who know their community best, HXP Builders will help expand accessibility while seeing firsthand what real, respectful partnership looks like in action.
Sources
¹ U.S. Census Bureau & America’s Health Rankings – Texas Rural Population & Health Disparities Report
² Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts & RHIhub – Health Insurance Coverage & Uninsured Rates in Texas Counties
³ Brookings Institution – Socioeconomic Indicators & Housing Conditions in Texas Border Communities
⁴ Texas Ramp Project – Mission, Ramp Construction Metrics & Community Guidelines