UNITED WAY SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA LAUNCHES “SET THE TABLE” INITIATIVE TO HELP FAMILIES SHARE HOLIDAY MEALS WITH DIGNITY AND HOPE
Lake Charles, LA — United Way Southwest Louisiana has announced the launch of its newest community initiative, Set the Table, a program designed to ensure families facing financial hardship can gather around the table for a meal filled with connection, dignity, and hope.
Through Set the Table, grocery store gift cards from our grocery partners will be provided to hardworking families known as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These are individuals and families who earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford life’s essentials such as housing, childcare, food, and healthcare.
The program officially launches this Thanksgiving, but United Way Southwest Louisiana plans for it to become a year-round Initiative, providing assistance not only during the holidays but also when families face sudden crises such as house fires, illness, or job loss.
“Families sharing a meal together is about more than food,” said Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. “It’s about connection, comfort, and the dignity that comes from sitting together at the table. By partnering with local grocery stores instead of using pre-packed boxes, we’re giving families the power to shop for the foods that are meaningful to them and to cook their own traditional holiday meals.”
Unlike many traditional food distributions, Set the Table allows families to shop locally and select items that align with their cultural or family traditions—removing the stigma of receiving a box of unfamiliar foods and replacing it with the empowerment of choice.
The program reflects United Way Southwest Louisiana’s ongoing evolution as a first-response organization, ready to meet community needs as they arise. From literacy initiatives and disaster response to helping families achieve long-term financial security, the organization continues to stand at the forefront of compassion and innovation.
“When crisis hits, something as simple as sharing a meal can restore a sense of normalcy and hope,” added Durel. “Set the Table gives our neighbors the chance to feel whole again—and that’s something everyone in Southwest Louisiana deserves.”
Community members who wish to support the initiative can donate by texting SETTHETABLE to 41444 or visiting unitedwayswla.org/setthetable.
About United Way of Southwest Louisiana
Since 1943, United Way of Southwest Louisiana has fought for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis parishes. Through innovative initiatives, partnerships, and direct response efforts, United Way Southwest Louisiana continues to create lasting change and build a more resilient community.
For more information, visit unitedwayswla.org or follow United Way of Southwest Louisiana on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.