Refocusing the infrastructure conversation on people Duanne Andrade, opinion contributor
Infrastructure is more than just roads and bridges - it s the entirety of the built world that keeps our society running. Housing is a critical component of our infrastructure and key to providing the basic platform from which to succeed, yet many lack access to affordable, safe and healthy housing. In fact, there is a true affordable housing crisis. Old, dilapidated structures and even new ones cause disproportionate cost burdens meaning that 30 to 40 percent of incomes are spent on housing costs.
In addition, energy burdens are also disproportionately high for low to moderate income (LMI) residents, and structures often lack climate resilience upgrades to protect the lives and assets of those already income-constrained. It is time we spoke of affordable housing as being more than a low-rent or low-cost home, but rather a place where families can live comfortably, develop
State Journal-Register
Every day, people in our community face personal and social crises including homelessness, hunger, limited educational supports, and challenges in accessing quality health care. For nearly 100 years, United Way and its partners have worked together to tackle tough problems like these.
At the start of last year, we had no idea how the year would unfold. Yet, through the pandemic we demonstrated our ability to come together when it counts most, and thanks to your support we were able to help the most vulnerable among us.
When the pandemic upended our lives, we partnered with The Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln to launch the COVID-19 Response Fund. Together, we distributed more than $905,000 in emergency funding to 80 local organizations. In turn, these organizations used those funds to directly distribute food and PPE to dozens of other organizations and to the public. We are incredibly thankful to the generous donors of our COVID-19 Response Fund
United Way of SWLA funding available for non-profits in five parishes
Non-profits should focus on health, education, economic mobility, or basic needs
United Way of Southwest Louisiana
and last updated 2021-05-04 21:15:54-04
Non-profit organizations in five parishes are eligible for funding through United Way of Southwest Louisiana.
United Way is currently accepting Letters of Intent (LOI) from non-profits in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis Parishes that address targeted community-wide issues in the four focus areas of health, education, economic mobility, and basic needs.
The deadline to submit an LOI is May 18, 2021, at 4:00 p.m. Our goal is to continue to provide financial support and direction to nonprofits who have the proven ability to address critical community needs that fit into our four focus areas, says Denise Durel, President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Louisiana. Our supporters trust us because they know the process ensures accou