Fort Bend County Judge KP George and the Fort Bend County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) held a ceremony at the Historic Fort Bend County Courthouse to recognize nearly 50 individuals, institutions of learning, organizations, county departments, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and medical facilities for their outstanding contributions to the fight against COVID-19.

“The ceremony was an opportunity to recognize and thank those who have gone above and beyond to help our community during our time of challenge,” said Judge George. “These individuals and organizations made a significant difference in our fight against COVID-19, and we are grateful for their dedication and hard work.”

Early this week, the World Health Organization announced that COVID-19 is no longer a global health emergency, marking a significant turning point in the ongoing battle against the pandemic.

The honorees received certificates of appreciation for their support. County Judge George referenced the immense loss and hardship many people faced during the pandemic noting that on March 4, 2021, the first presumptive case of COVID-19 in Texas was reported in Fort Bend County. However, since that time. Fort Bend County has the eighth-highest coronavirus vaccination rate in Texas.

The honorees include Child Advocates of Fort Bend, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Access Health, The American Legion Raymond Freeman Post 942, FBC Fire Marshall, Fort Bend County Girls and Boys Club Richmond, Friendship Community Bible Church, Houston Food Bank, Houston Methodist Hospital Sugar Land, and many more. The full list of honorees can be found on the Fort Bend County website at FBCTX.gov.