Mayors and City Councils of Lake Jackson, Freeport, Clute, Angleton, and Brazoria County Commissioners,

My name is Ashley, and I’m a mother, a survivor, and a resident of Brazoria County. I’ve lived through addiction. I’ve battled mental illness. I’ve been homeless. I’ve experienced the fear, confusion, and hopelessness that comes with needing help—and not being able to find it.

In the hardest moments of my life, what I needed wasn’t punishment or judgment—I needed shelter, compassion, support, and access to care. And I know I’m not alone. There are so many others in Lake Jackson, Freeport, Clute, Angleton, and beyond who are quietly suffering, just trying to survive each day. Many end up in jail, on the streets, or worse—not because they’re bad people, but because they don’t have access to the help they need.

We are asking our local leaders to recognize this crisis and take bold, compassionate action. Specifically, we’re asking for:

• Funding for local addiction recovery and mental health outreach centers that people can actually get to and use.

• Emergency and long-term housing options for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

• Mobile crisis response teams that can help law enforcement respond to mental health emergencies safely.

• Opportunities for community input—especially from people with lived experience—so that real voices shape real solutions.

I’m not sharing my story for sympathy—I’m sharing it because I believe in hope, healing, and change. I believe our communities can do better. And I believe that with your help—by signing and sharing this petition—we can show our leaders that these lives matter.

Please stand with me and with everyone who deserves a second chance, a safe place to sleep, and a path forward.