Submitted By United Way of Northwest Louisiana
In this time of global and economic crisis, United Way of Northwest Louisiana stands firm in our commitment to serving those in need. This means providing critical resources for those affected by the recent COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the needs of Northwest Louisianans in both the immediate and long-term.
United Way of Northwest Louisiana is proud to have corporate partners committed to serving the communities where their employees live and work. Partners like Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana Foundation, who recently contributed $50,000 to the United for NWLA Fund, will help spur immediate relief for some of our most vulnerable neighbors. Regions Bank Foundation and CenterPoint Energy each contributed $10,000 to support 211.
“The support of our corporate partners enables us to do some of our most critical work in times of crisis,” said Dr. Bruce Willson Jr., President and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. “We are incredibly grateful to Blue Cross Blue Shield Louisiana Foundation, Regions Bank, and CenterPoint Energy for their investment during this critical moment in our history.”
“The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation is committed to improving the wellness and wellbeing of people and communities across our state. In this challenging time, we’re glad to partner with groups like the United Way of Northwest Louisiana who are providing direct support for those in need today and who are working with non-profits and community leaders to find ways the problems that are on the horizon,” said Michael Tipton, President of the Foundation.
“CenterPoint Energy has partnered with United Way NWLA for many years and we value the support they provide in our community, said Eric Barkley, CenterPoint Energy District Director. “We are honored to receive this award.”
“Regions Bank remains committed to our community during this difficult time,” said Mark Evans, Regions Bank Market Executive for North Louisiana and East Texas. “United Way’s 211 program connects individuals to services they need and we believe it will make a significant difference in the lives of those it helps. “
“United Way of Northwest Louisiana is currently identifying the most prominent challenges facing our community through calls to 211,” says Louise Droddy, Director of 211 of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. “We are also ensuring those who have been hit hardest by this pandemic are connected to local nonprofit organizations who are ready and willing to meet those needs.”
Contributions to United Way’s United for NWLA Fund can be designated to support 211 or provide direct financial support to ALICE community members in Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Natchitoches, Red River, Sabine, Webster, and Winn Parishes. Typically considered the “working poor,” ALICE community members earn too much to apply for typical human service benefits but make too little to survive during natural disasters or large-scale public emergency situations, such as the COVID-19 crisis.
Please consider an investment in the needs of our community and contribute to the United for NWLA Fund here. Together, we can continue to ensure the brightest future for all in Northwest Louisiana.
