Catholic Charities of Acadiana Expands Mission With New Lafayette Campus

A New Home for a Growing Mission

LAFAYETTE, La. — Catholic Charities of Acadiana is preparing to expand its ministry of service and compassion with a second Lafayette campus designed to bring many of its regionally focused programs together under one roof.

The organization will move into a 30,000-square-foot facility at 730 E. Kaliste Saloom Road following two transformational gifts made through the Community Foundation of Acadiana. The new location is expected to provide additional space for programs, volunteers, donations and emergency response efforts throughout the region.

The expansion comes as a reminder that serving others requires both compassion and preparation. Proverbs 19:17 teaches that those who show kindness to the poor are honoring the Lord.

Generosity Creates Opportunity

The acquisition of the property was made possible through restricted gifts designated specifically for purchasing the building and investing in its long-term infrastructure. One donor chose to remain anonymous.

Community Foundation of Acadiana President and CEO Missy Bienvenu described the contribution as an example of thoughtful stewardship developed over many years. Rather than simply meeting an immediate need, the donor’s generosity is helping strengthen Catholic Charities of Acadiana for the future.

That spirit of stewardship reflects the biblical principle found in 1 Peter 4:10, which encourages believers to use the gifts they have received to serve others as faithful stewards of God’s grace.

Building Capacity to Serve

The new campus will house Catholic Charities of Acadiana’s community resilience programs, regional response warehouse and administrative offices. It will also become a centralized volunteer and donation center.

Previously, donated goods and volunteer operations were spread among various drop-off locations and temporary storage spaces. The new facility will create a permanent hub where resources can be organized and deployed more efficiently when families and communities need assistance.

In times of disaster, hardship or uncertainty, having the ability to respond quickly can make a significant difference. Galatians 6:2 calls Christians to “bear ye one another’s burdens,” a principle reflected in the organization’s effort to prepare resources and people to help neighbors in need.

A Strategic Investment in People

Catholic Charities CEO Kim Boudreaux said the lead gifts came from donors who wanted to strengthen the organization’s capacity for the long term. Their generosity, she said, represents solidarity with neighbors who are suffering while allowing Catholic Charities to make the investment without taking resources away from families and individuals currently receiving assistance.

The organization had previously planned to expand its St. John Street campus but changed direction after the gifts were designated for the Kaliste Saloom property. Officials also noted that acquiring the existing building was less expensive than constructing a new facility.

Faith Put Into Action

The new campus represents more than bricks, offices and storage space. It represents an opportunity to expand a ministry centered on serving people during difficult seasons of life.

Jesus emphasized the importance of caring for others in Matthew 25:40, reminding His followers that what they do for those in need is ultimately an act of service to Him.

As Catholic Charities of Acadiana prepares to establish its new Lafayette campus, the investment demonstrates how generosity, stewardship and faith can come together to strengthen a community. Through donors, volunteers and staff, the organization will continue working to ensure that people facing hardship have somewhere to turn.

Prayer for Catholic Charities and the Community

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the generosity that made this new campus possible. Bless Catholic Charities of Acadiana, its leaders, volunteers, donors and everyone who will receive assistance through its programs.

Give the organization wisdom as it expands its mission, strength as it serves families in need and compassion for every person who walks through its doors. Bless those who have given generously and guide others to use their resources to make a difference.

Lord, strengthen Acadiana as a community that cares for its neighbors. May this new campus become a place of hope, restoration and practical help for those experiencing difficult circumstances.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.