Essentials
Lafayette Initiative for Food Equity
Welcome to the Lafayette Initiative for Food Equity (LIFE) by United Way of Acadiana, dedicated to tackling the Healthy Food Priority Area concerns in Lafayette’s Northside. Our multi-faceted approach aims to provide accessible, nutritious food options for residents in the area. Let’s explore the key components of this program:
Our comprehensive approach brings together all these pieces to meet the needs of Northside residents, who often face barriers to accessing fresh food. Many rely on public transportation, making grocery shopping challenging. Moreover, crossing the Evangeline Throughway can be dangerous for pedestrians, leading residents to opt for convenient stores that primarily stock unhealthy shelf-stable products. Our plan bridges this gap by providing accessible, pre-prepared healthy meals in convenient stores at affordable prices through our partner programs and SNAP match benefits.
Together, let’s create a healthier and more vibrant community in Lafayette’s Northside. Join us in our mission to transform food access and improve the well-being of residents.
Fill out the interest form below to stay up-to-date on UWA’s LIFE program!
Fresh Food Initiative
- As part of our efforts, we are actively engaging with 30 local convenience stores to participate in the Corner Store Loan Forgiveness program. Through this program, these stores will have the opportunity to receive loan forgiveness, allowing them to stock fresh and healthy products. Additionally, we will implement a SNAP incentive program and educational initiatives that include informative marketing materials promoting healthy food choices.
Lafayette Corner Store Initiative
- To support local convenience stores, we will provide them with small forgivable loans for capital investments. These investments will primarily focus on installing coolers that will be stocked by one of our partner organizations at no cost to the convenience store. By partnering with us, stores can generate real profits while offering their customers fresh and healthy options. The distribution of these products will be fully funded by United Way of Acadiana and our partner organizations, ensuring no financial burden on the stores.
Lafayette Fresh Food Distribution Network
- The Lafayette Food Network serves as the backbone of our program, facilitating connections between local farmers, stores, and distributors. This network acts as the primary method of delivering healthy food to residents on the Northside. By strengthening these connections, we aim to create a sustainable and reliable supply chain that brings fresh produce and other nutritious products to the community.
Lafayette Neighborhood Grocery Support Program
- Recognizing the challenges faced by grocery stores on the Northside, United Way of Acadiana has partnered with the Lafayette Public Trust Financing Authority. Through this collaboration, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) will be established. The CDFI will offer a revolving loan fund designed to assist struggling grocery stores in improving their operations, marketing strategies, and expansion efforts. This support aims to ensure the long-term viability and success of these vital community resources.