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Partnership Grants Open

tchrisope — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 18:36:20 +0000

Partnership Grants Open

tchrisope Wed, 10/15/2025 - 1:36pm

United Way Southwest Louisiana Announces Opening of 2026–2027 Partnership Grant Cycle

Lake Charles, LA — United Way Southwest Louisiana is pleased to announce the upcoming opening of its 2026–2027 Partnership Grant cycle, designed to fund local nonprofit organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities throughout Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jefferson Davis parishes.

The Partnership Grants support programs that align with United Way Southwest Louisiana’s four focus areas: Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, Healthy Community, and Community Resiliency. These grants are open to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations serving Southwest Louisiana residents, particularly those addressing the needs of the ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed)—families who are working yet struggling to afford basic necessities.

Important Dates

Letter of Intent (LOI) Opens: November 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM
LOI Closes: December 3, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Request for Proposal (RFP) Opens: December 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM
RFP Closes: February 11, 2026 at 4:00 PM

Only organizations that submit a Letter of Intent by the deadline will be invited to submit a full Request for Proposal.

“Through our Partnership Grants, United Way Southwest Louisiana invests in innovative, community-based solutions that create lasting change,” said Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. “These partnerships allow us to work hand-in-hand with local nonprofits to ensure every person in Southwest Louisiana has the opportunity to thrive.”

To be eligible, organizations must:

Be a registered 501(c)(3) in good standing
Maintain a physical presence in at least one of the five eligible parishes
Provide services within the United Way Southwest Louisiana service area
Have a written Disaster Management Plan policy

Applications must be submitted online; mailed or emailed submissions will not be accepted.

For complete details and to access the application portal, visit:
👉 unitedwayswla.org/partnership-grant

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Join Us in Supporting Kerr County Flood Relief Efforts

tchrisope — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 18:12:18 +0000

Join Us in Supporting Kerr County Flood Relief Efforts

tchrisope Tue, 07/08/2025 - 1:12pm

Dear Southwest Louisiana Families,

I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible spirit of community that we have built together in the face of adversity. After the devastation of Hurricanes Laura and Delta, we felt the warmth and support from families across the Gulf Coast who stood by us, offering help in our time of need. Now, it’s our turn to extend that same compassion to those facing challenges in Kerr County, Texas.

Over the past two years, our community has shown what unity truly means. We saw how Southwest Louisiana rallied to support tornado survivors in Mississippi and those impacted by hurricanes in Florida, including a freight truck that served over 1,000 families with cleaning supplies and drinking water. Your generosity has enabled us to respond swiftly and effectively, delivering critical resources where needed.

Today, I challenge each of you to harness that same spirit of generosity and support our neighbors in Kerr County through the UNITEDGULF campaign. No matter the size, 100% of every donation will directly contribute to relief efforts for families currently grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding. Let’s show them the same love and kindness our community received during our darkest days.

When we unite and support one another, we create a powerful force for good that can make a profound difference. I encourage you to donate to the UNITEDGULF campaign today. Text UNITEDGULF to 40403 or visit unitedwayswla.org/unitedgulf to help us continue this vital work.

Let’s stand together as one community, proving we can weather any storm when we lift each other. Thank you for your compassion and commitment to helping those in need.

With gratitude,

Denise Durel
President & CEO
United Way Southwest Louisiana

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Affordable Preparedness Tips for Hurricane Season

tchrisope — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:19:58 +0000

Affordable Preparedness Tips for Hurricane Season

tchrisope Tue, 06/24/2025 - 3:19pm

Hurricane season can be a challenging time for ALICE families. Still, there are affordable ways to prepare and ensure your safety. Start by creating a simple emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and first aid supplies—many of which can be sourced on a budget.

Ready SWLA: Smart Prep for Real Life

Make a family communication plan, and practice it together so everyone knows what to do when a storm approaches. Utilize community resources and workshops that offer free or low-cost preparedness training, helping you stay informed and ready without straining your finances. Remember, preparedness doesn’t have to be costly; it’s about planning and making wise choices to safeguard your loved ones.

Residents can register online at UNITEDWAYSWLA.ORG/STORM or text “STORMSWLA” to 40403 to receive real-time updates from trusted sources before, during, and after a hurricane.

Ready.gov has up-to-date information such as this Family Communications Plan Form.

Make sure you store important phone numbers somewhere other than just your cell phone
Sign up for emergency alerts in your area to receive life-saving information from state and local officials
Build your EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT over time instead of just when a disaster strikes and locate it all in a safe area
Store important documents and paperwork together in water-tight plastic storage bags (available at United Way)
Use United Way's 211 helpline by dialing 211 or online to find resources before, during and after a crisis

Download the LA Emergency Preparedness Guide

Download in English

Download in Spanish

Download in Vietnamese

Free Mental Health Sources

Dial 211 to be transferred to a live counselor 24/7

Visit CRISIS CHAT ONLINE to message with a live counselor 24/7

Teens can use our specialized 833.TXT.TEEN (833.898.8336) to text with a live counselor 24/7

Basic Supplies

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
Flashlight
First aid kit
Extra batteries
Whistle (to signal for help)
Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
Plastic sheeting and duct tape in case of shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Manual can opener (for food)
Local maps
Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Supplies

Soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
Prescription Medications
Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
Pet food and extra water for your pet
Cash
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
Fire extinguisher
Matches in a waterproof container
Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
Paper and pencil
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

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Bank ON SWLA

sysop — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:15:53 +0000

Bank ON SWLA

sysop Mon, 06/16/2025 - 9:15am

Bank On SWLA works to connect everyone to safe and affordable financial products and services.

BANK ON SWLA IS A COLLABORATION BETWEEN FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE THAT ALL RESIDENTS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE FINANCIALLY HEALTHY. TOGETHER, WE ARE WORKING TO CONNECT PEOPLE TO SAFE, AFFORDABLE, AND CERTIFIED BANKING ACCOUNTS.

Our members also offer services and educational resources that help empower people and families to improve their financial capability, health and independence.

Our partners offer services and educational resources that help empower people and families to improve their financial capability, health and independence.

It is important that community members have access to resources that help lay a solid foundation for banking and financial empowerment.

WHAT DOES UNBANKED MEAN?

Unbanked households have neither a checking nor a savings account with a mainstream financial institution like a bank or credit union.

The national average is 6.5%, but Louisiana is more than double that rate at 14.8%.

People without an account are more likely to pay higher fees for financial services and tend to be more vulnerable when financial emergencies happen. Nowhere are the rates of unbanked households higher than in the Deep South. These rates, particularly among historically underserved populations, highlight the importance of having depositories in low-income communities that are equipped and staffed with the product mix to serve local people.

Underbanked households use alternative financial service providers like auto title lenders, check cashers, pawn shops, payday lenders, and rent-to-own stores. These businesses typically charge high fees for their services and deplete income and wealth.

What are the benefits of being banked?

THE BANK ON MOVEMENT

Bank On SWLA is proud to be part of the national Bank On movement, made up of over 75 similar local coalitions across the country.

The nonprofit Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund (CFE Fund) is the national partner for local Bank On coalitions, supporting local efforts through resources like the Bank On National Account Standards and accompanying certification, grant support to build local coalition capacity, and a robust learning community. The CFE Fund also works to give voice to local coalition experiences by informing both federal regulatory policy and financial institution practices.

BANK ON CERTIFIED ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE IN SWLA

Banks and credit unions across Southwest Louisiana offer low-cost, low-fee transaction accounts that are certified as meeting the Bank On National Account Standards. The accounts listed below feature online banking, bill pay, mobile deposit, debit card usage, direct deposit, and more. An overview of each account is provided below and you can visit each account details page for more information. Some accounts can only be opened in-branch while others offer an online option for opening.

BECOME A PARTNER IN BANK ON SWLA

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Registration open for ALICE Summit

tchrisope — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 16:15:57 +0000

Registration open for ALICE Summit tchrisope Tue, 03/18/2025 - 11:15am

United Way Southwest Louisiana announces the Inaugural ALICE Summit of Louisiana, scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, at L'Auberge Lake Charles. This groundbreaking event will raise awareness about the critical challenges faced by Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) individuals within our community—hardworking individuals who still struggle to meet the basic necessities of life. Register today at unitedwayswla.org/alicesummit.

The ALICE Summit is not just an event; it’s a pivotal moment for our region. We invite community leaders, businesses, and organizations to discuss the challenges of our ALICE population and forge sustainable solutions that will empower thousands in Southwest Louisiana and beyond.

The ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data highlights the significant challenges many households in our region face. In Allen Parish, the ALICE population stands at an alarming 36%, while Beauregard Parish reports 24%. Calcasieu Parish is home to 26% of its residents who fall under this category, with Cameron Parish at 31% and Jeff Davis Parish at 35%. These statistics illustrate the pressing need for unified efforts among community leaders and businesses to address the economic struggles faced by many families. We can strategize effective solutions and drive impactful change for our communities by coming together at the inaugural ALICE Summit.

The Summit will feature distinguished national speakers and panelists, including leaders from prominent businesses and legislators, such as:

- Louisiana State Representative Jason Hughes, House District 100 and Vice Chair House Appropriations

- Dr. Stephanie Hoopes, National Director, United for ALICE, United Way of Northern New Jersey

- Jaimie Hebert, Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs, University of Louisiana

- Patty Riddlebarger, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, Entergy Louisiana

- Mayor Nic Hunter, City of Lake Charles

- Tristi Charpentier, Vice President, People-Centered Initiatives, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation

- Sarah Berthelot, President & CEO, Louisiana Association of United Ways

- Norman Morris, CEO, LA Realtors Association

- Ken Oldham, President & CEO, United Way of Frederick County, Maryland

- Heather Davidson, Senior Advisor, Cloud 9 Nonprofit Advisors

- Kevin Delahoussaye, Executive Director, Louisiana Housing Corporation

- Susana Schowen, Secretary, Louisiana Workforce Commission

- Susan East Nelson, J.D., Executive Director, Louisiana Partnership for Children & Families

- Jan Moller, Executive Director, Invest in Louisiana (formerly LA Budget Project)

- Shawn Wilson, Former Secretary, Louisiana Department of Transportation

- Mary Leach Werner, Chairman, Sweet Lake Land & Oil Company

- Dr. David LaFargue, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions, SOWELA Technical Community College

Participation will help foster collaborative discussions among community stakeholders aimed at driving actionable strategies for economic stability and inclusivity.

"We believe that by joining forces, we can elevate our community’s most vulnerable members," said Denise Durel, President & CEO of United Way Southwest Louisiana. "This summit is our opportunity to listen to the voices of our ALICE population and to inspire our collective action towards meaningful change."

What’s In Store:

- Insightful discussions that spotlight the real-life experiences of ALICE individuals, like Maria, a mother from Lake Charles working multiple jobs to support her family amidst financial uncertainty.

- Panel #1: "Building Resilience: Strengthening Working Families in Post-Hurricane Louisiana"

- Fireside Chat: "Shaping Opportunities for Working Families"

- Panel #2/Speakers: “A Home for the Future: Addressing Housing and Transportation Challenges for Louisiana’s Working Families”

- Panel #3: "CEO Roundtable"

- Networking opportunities with local and national leaders who are dedicated to making a difference in our community.

Get Involved:

We invite you to register as a sponsor or attendee or buy a table setup spot for the ALICE Summit. Your support is crucial in building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can change the narrative and create a brighter future for ALICE individuals and families across Louisiana. Learn more at unitedwayswla.org/alicesummit

How to Register:

To register for the summit or to secure sponsorship opportunities, please visit unitedwayswla.org/alicesummit

Having a table set up at the event presents a fantastic opportunity for businesses and nonprofits to showcase their offerings and engage directly with the community. It allows organizations and nonprofits to connect face-to-face with potential customers, partners, and supporters, fostering relationships that can lead to valuable collaborations and increased visibility. As attendees explore the event, they will have the chance to learn more about what these organizations do.

Join us in making a lasting impact. Together, we can uplift the ALICE population in our region and create pathways for economic opportunity for all.

The ALICE Summit sponsors are CITGO Petroleum Corporation, Calcasieu Refining Company, L'Auberge Lake Charles, Westlake Corporation, Phillips 66, UpScale Productions, Lake Charles Memorial Health System, Cumulus Media, Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, and LyondellBasell.

###

About United Way Southwest Louisiana
From strengthening local resilience to advancing healthy communities, youth opportunity and financial security, United Way Southwest Louisiana is mobilizing communities to take action so all can thrive.
UnitedWaySWLA.org

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Strong Homes Initiative

sysop — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 23:56:38 +0000

Strong Homes Initiative

sysop Thu, 11/14/2024 - 5:56pm

In our ongoing commitment to safeguarding communities and enhancing disaster preparedness, we've launched a transformative program aimed at fortifying homes against the threats of natural disasters.

Our Initiative is specially designed to assist ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and low-income working families, ensuring their residences are prepared and resilient against the challenges posed by high winds and heavy rains. Here, you'll find comprehensive details on how to apply for assistance, eligibility criteria and how this Initiative makes a tangible difference in the community. We invite you to explore how the Strong Homes Initiative is actively working toward a safer, more secure future for all residents in Southwest Louisiana.

TREE TRIMMING APPLICATION IS OPEN UNTIL FUNDS ARE DEPLETED.
OPPORTUNITY IS FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED.

Applicant must be the homeowner as identified by Calcasieu Parish Assessor's Office
Applicant must reside in Calcasieu Parish
Applicant must live in the home year-round
Home must be inhabited currently
Household income must be at or below ALICE Threshold
Work must be preventative

Opportunities for application may have different criteria or funding amounts.

Application is NOT a guarantee of services.

All opportunities are first-come, first-served until funds are exhausted.

Do not call about your application. You will be notified if you meet the qualifications.

Current Is your income at or below the ALICE Threshold?
Homeowners Information
Household Information
Acknowledgements & Submit
Complete

Status message

Have you checked the chart to make sure your household income is below the ALICE Threshold?

Yes

This home is in Calcasieu Parish.

I acknowledge I am the legal homeowner.

I acknowledge I live in the home year-round.

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Impact Lives

sysop — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:26:03 +0000

Impact Lives sysop Tue, 10/22/2024 - 10:26am

Helping United Way boosts your community and enriches your own life.

10%

Summer Impact Grant Application

adurel — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:53:50 +0000

Summer Impact Grant Application

adurel Fri, 04/21/2023 - 12:53pm

Please complete the following application for your Summer Impact grant request. For those who have questions about the application forms or process, please contact us.

Application OPENS on MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026.

APPLICATION CLOSES ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2026 AT 4 PM.

United Way Southwest Louisiana announces the Summer Impact Grant opportunity to expand and deepen services for children and youth ages 5-18 in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron and Jeff Davis parishes over the summer of 2026. The criteria and application are below.

Focus areas include, but are not limited to: arts, advocacy, dance, athletics, leadership, literacy and STEM.

Grant funds will be used to offset tuittion costs for low to moderate income (ALICE) families during the summer months. Learn more about ALICE here.

Successful implementation will help close the achievement gap, improve health outcomes and scale programs in locations where they're needed most.

The maximum grant award amount per organization is up to $5,000.

Award letters will be sent electronically no later than May 13, 2026.

GRANT CRITERIA

Proposals must be submitted by organizations registered and in good standing, with the Louisiana Secretary of State.

Faith-based organizations are invited to apply.

Organizations are encouraged to give priority to households falling below the ALICE Threshold. ALICE | United Way Southwest Louisiana (unitedwayswla.org)

Proposed projects must be designed to be completed within the date range of June 1 to August 15, 2026.

Tuition funds must be used to assist youth ages 5-18

Organizations must operate within the 5-parish area (Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jeff Davis)

Funds must be used to provide program tuition assistance to low to moderate-income households if awarded.

A final report with photos and quotes is due by September 1, 2026, showing the use of funds.

INSTRUCTIONS

Application questions: answer the questions as completely as possible.
Submission: deadline to electronically submit the completed application is May 13, 2026 at 4 pm.

Applicant Organization Name

Address

City

State

ZIP/Postal Code

Telephone Number

Fax Number

Website

Executive Director's Name

Contact Person's Name/Title

Contact Person Phone

Tax ID #

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Brief Title/Name of Summer Program

Physical Address where Summer Program will be held

Parish(es) where activity will occur

Allen

Beauregard

Calcasieu

Cameron

Jeff Davis

All of the above

Type of Facility (e.g., community center, school)

Hours of Operation

# of Days per Week

Projected # of youth served

Date of Proposed Project

Start

End:

# of Years Summer Program has been in operation

Grant Amount Requested $

Tuition per child $

BACKGROUND: Give a brief description of your organization's history, mission, and achievements in the community it serves over the past year. Include a description of the target population(s) you serve.

PROJECT PURPOSE: Describe the proposed summer program, including the goals of the program, activities/service provided to reach the goals.

TARGET POPULATION: Describe the target population of youth to be served, including the projected, unduplicated number of youth to be served.

This application is complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I understand that my application will not be considered until the application attachments have been received.

Signature

Sign above

If awarded, funds will be sent ACH, please provide banking informationBANKING INFORMATION FOR TRANSFER OF AWARD

Bank Name

Routing Number

Account Number

Email address for notifications of banking information

I understand that if awarded, funds are to be used as tuition assistance and that final report demonstrating use of funds is due by 9/1/2024.

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Born Learning Trail

tchrisope — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 13:34:27 +0000

Born Learning Trail

tchrisope Thu, 09/22/2022 - 8:34am

Bring a Born Learning STEAM Trail to a park or school in Southwest Louisiana!

A fun, interactive learning experience that connects families and strengthens our community.

The Born Learning STEAM Trail (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics) transforms outdoor spaces—like parks, trails, and schoolyards—into exciting, hands-on learning environments.

Each trail features 14 interactive, STEAM-themed activity signs designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and discovery while helping young children explore the world around them through play.

United Way Southwest Louisiana was able to build its first Born Learning Trail with the sponsorship of the Sulphur Kiwanis Club and assistance from Sulphur Parks and Recreation (SPAR) at McMurry Park - 300 S. Hazel Street, Sulphur, La 70663.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

Each trail kit includes:

• 15 full-color, 12” x 24” metal signs (14 activity signs + 1 welcome sign)
• All mounting hardware
• Custom branding with your company logo and United Way Southwest Louisiana logo
• Volunteer installation opportunity for your team

Built to last with UV and moisture protection for 2–4 years of outdoor use.

Why Your Company Should Sponsor a Trail

✅ Community Impact – Strengthen your company’s local presence.
✅ Education – Support early childhood learning and development.
✅ Engagement – Give employees a fun, meaningful volunteer experience.
✅ Visibility – Your logo displayed on every trail sign.

Perfect for parks, schoolyards, community centers, or walking trails.

$1,450 per trail kit

To Sponsor a Trail in your park or city

Signs are available in English and Spanish and translations can also be made to most other languages. The trail can be ordered as a kit and includes instructions, hardware, and reinforced full-color metal signs. Building materials and muscle can be locally sourced – installation days are great volunteer events. Signs include the option to have special messaging, including sponsor names, company logos, or other investor recognition.

Contact United Way Southwest Louisiana to discuss location, placement and partnership options.

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Crisis Chat Online

tchrisope — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 15:29:42 +0000

Crisis Chat Online

tchrisope Wed, 08/24/2022 - 10:29am

CRISIS CHAT is for anyone who is going through a hard time, has thoughts about suicide, or just needs to talk. Crisis intervention specialists are ready to listen, provide emotional support and help you cope. Specialists are not here to judge or tell you what you should do. We understand that people are the experts in their own lives.

CLICK ON THE CHAT BOX IN THE BOTTOM RIGHT CORNER TO ACCESS A LIVE CRISIS INTERVENTION SPECIALIST 24/7/365.

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Partnership Grants Open

Join Us in Supporting Kerr County Flood Relief Efforts

Affordable Preparedness Tips for Hurricane Season

Ready SWLA: Smart Prep for Real Life

Download the LA Emergency Preparedness Guide

Free Mental Health Sources

Basic Supplies

Additional Supplies

Bank ON SWLA

BANK ON SWLA IS A COLLABORATION BETWEEN FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE THAT ALL RESIDENTS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE FINANCIALLY HEALTHY. TOGETHER, WE ARE WORKING TO CONNECT PEOPLE TO SAFE, AFFORDABLE, AND CERTIFIED BANKING ACCOUNTS.

WHAT DOES UNBANKED MEAN?

THE BANK ON MOVEMENT

BANK ON CERTIFIED ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE IN SWLA

Registration open for ALICE Summit

Strong Homes Initiative

TREE TRIMMING APPLICATION IS OPEN UNTIL FUNDS ARE DEPLETED.OPPORTUNITY IS FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED.

Status message

Impact Lives

Summer Impact Grant Application

Application OPENS on MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026.

GRANT CRITERIA

Born Learning Trail

Bring a Born Learning STEAM Trail to a park or school in Southwest Louisiana!

To Sponsor a Trail in your park or city

Crisis Chat Online

TREE TRIMMING APPLICATION IS OPEN UNTIL FUNDS ARE DEPLETED.
OPPORTUNITY IS FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED.