COVID-19 highlights health, economic disparities in communities of color Community Impact Newspaper Share: HOUSTON, Texas -- Before COVID-19, Katrina Barlow was prepared to retire at 55, was driving her dream car, had recovered from cancer and was able to support her disabled mother. After a year of living through the pandemic, Barlow is spending her savings on keeping her small business in Pearland, Salons on the Lake, afloat. "I have had my business for 16 years. I paid taxes; I did everything right, and I didn't get government help," Barlow said. Barlow is one of the many business owners, as well as one of the many people of color, who have been affected by COVID-19.