United Way of Northwest Louisiana representatives addressed the Natchitoches City Council during its October 26 meeting, outlining programs available to local residents and efforts to strengthen the organization’s relationship with Natchitoches Parish.
LaToria Thomas, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana, explained that although the organization’s presence in Natchitoches has become less visible, its programs have continued serving parish residents. A major focus of the presentation was the ALICE population, an acronym for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. The term describes working individuals and families who earn above the poverty threshold but struggle to afford basic living expenses.
According to Thomas, 57% of Natchitoches Parish residents fall within the ALICE population or below the poverty threshold. Approximately 27% of parish residents live in poverty, compared to about 20% statewide. Thomas explained that a family of four earning approximately $34,000 or less annually falls within the poverty category, while families earning above that amount and up to approximately $80,000 may still face financial challenges.
These households often do not qualify for utility, childcare or housing assistance despite struggling to meet their expenses.
United Way also serves as the local partner for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, providing free books each month to participating children from birth through age five. Thomas said approximately 700 books are currently distributed monthly to children in Natchitoches Parish, with a goal of expanding participation to approximately 1,500 children.
The books cost approximately $3 per child each month, creating an ongoing need for financial support. The program is intended to promote early literacy and kindergarten readiness. Thomas noted that approximately 60% of Louisiana children enter kindergarten without being fully prepared.
United Way also operates 211, a referral service connecting residents with resources for housing, utility assistance, financial emergencies and other needs. Thomas explained that residents facing eviction notices, utility disconnections or emergencies such as house fires can call 211 to identify available assistance.
The organization maintains a database of community resources and attempts to connect callers with services close to home. According to Thomas, the service has received approximately 3,500 calls from about 2,400 individuals.
United Way’s Financial Security Center provides free financial coaching and counseling, including assistance with budgeting, debt reduction, savings and credit concerns. Thomas said the program has helped participants save nearly $2 million and reduce debt by nearly $4 million. She also discussed the dangers of high-interest payday loans, noting that some loans in Louisiana can carry interest rates as high as 785%.
Through partnerships with financial institutions and credit unions, United Way offers qualifying participants alternatives, including small-dollar loans of up to $1,000 with low or no interest. Although the organization’s office is in Shreveport, Natchitoches residents can access financial counseling by telephone or through virtual appointments.
Thomas said United Way is also working to establish monthly in-person appointments in Natchitoches for residents who prefer face-to-face assistance.
Thomas also announced a new agreement with Entergy that will provide limited utility assistance to eligible customers. Selected Entergy customers will receive a $100 utility credit through a lottery system, with priority given to ALICE households that may not qualify for other assistance programs. Thomas estimated that approximately $3,000 would be available for distribution.
Throughout the presentation, Thomas emphasized United Way’s interest in rebuilding its relationship with Natchitoches officials and community organizations. Council members discussed opportunities to connect residents with financial counseling and other assistance programs, including potentially providing local office space for monthly appointments.
Thomas said United Way could supply informational cards with QR codes allowing residents to schedule virtual appointments.
City officials thanked the organization for its continued work in Northwest Louisiana.
Residents seeking community assistance can call 211. Those interested in free financial coaching can contact United Way of Northwest Louisiana for additional information.