When the Coalition announced the $65 million Community COVID Housing Program (CCHP) in July 2020, securing these unprecedented funds was just one step of many that accompany such a massive undertaking. Since that time, our finance team, including Director of Finance Cynthia Thomas, has worked diligently to track and manage the many public and private monies that fund the Coalition and other partners as part of this complex program. Now more than ever, Cynthia’s expertise is needed to keep our system funded and running smoothly. We invite you to learn more about valued team member Cynthia!
Staff Spotlight: Cynthia Thomas
Aubry Vonck • September 20, 2021
Q: Where are you from originally?
I am a native Houstonian who recently moved back to Houston after living in beautiful Southern California for 15 years.
Q: What do you love most about Houston?
I’ve always considered Houston my base that includes most of my family and friends. I love the diverse cultures, food, and overall southern hospitality.
Q: What made you want to work in the area of homelessness?
I’ve always had a desire to help underserved communities. Working for the Coalition has provided me the opportunity to accomplish this goal by helping them manage the numerous funding streams used for shelter. Providing the Houston homeless with safe havens to live is an awesome responsibility!
Q: Can you tell me a little about your role at the Coalition and what it entails?
As the Director of Finance, my role is to assist the Coalition in the proper management of administrative and programmatic funds for their intended purpose, “to serve the homeless.”
Q: Are there any specific projects you are working on right now?
My current project is managing the various braiding of funds received as the result of COVID.
Q: What is the most inspiring part of your job?
It is inspiring to work with an organization that feels more like working with family members who are striving to achieve the same goal.
Q: Do you have any hobbies outside of work?
I love outdoor activities such as attending festivals, hiking, and being at the beach. I am a dog and cat lover. I enjoy listening/singing to an array of music genres, and spending time with family and friends.
Q: If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?
My superpower would be the ability to transport within seconds from one place to another, allowing me to visit my son and fur baby more often in Santa Clarita, CA.
Q: What is one thing that makes you proud?
I’m proud of my ability to truly believe that “this too shall pass.” I have the ability to look beyond issues, knowing that the best outcome is just a horizon away.
Q: If you invite three people to dinner, dead or alive, who would you invite and why?
My father, mother, and brother. Gone way too soon…just to say “I love you” again.
Q: Tell us one fun fact about yourself!
Being an infamous couch potato is my guilty pleasure.
What We Stopped, What We Started, and What Comes Next
What CFTH is doing and how you can help as hurricane season begins.
The Coalition for the Homeless (CFTH) as designated coordinator to The Way Home Continuum of Care (CoC) works with local governmental entities to advocate on behalf of people experiencing homelessness to ensure their needs are being considered as extreme heat affects our region. We will make frequent updates as we receive information. Please check back often for the latest information. Last updated Wednesday, May 20th, @ 11:00 a.m.
