Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersGovernment NewsNewsPolitics

Highland Center Launches Community Lighthouse Initiative in Shreveport

Residents of Shreveport gather at the Highland Center to discuss the Community Lighthouse Initiative and disaster preparedness.

Article Sponsored by:

SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORS!

Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.

What Sponsors Receive:

Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence

Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?

Browse Examples of Sponsored News and Articles:

May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf

Click the button below to sponsor our articles:

Sponsor Our Articles

News Summary

The Highland Center in Shreveport is enhancing community disaster preparedness with the new Community Lighthouse Initiative. Executive director Madison Poche introduced backup power and water facilities, including a new deep water well, to ensure residents have access to clean water during emergencies. The center is on track for full operation by summer 2023 and aims to establish itself as a crucial safe haven for disaster response efforts. This initiative also promises new job opportunities and collaborations to uplift the local community.

Shreveport’s Highland Center is Ready for Action with New Community Lighthouse Initiative

Shreveport residents, get ready! The Highland Center is stepping up to improve how the community deals with disaster situations. With the recent unveiling of new disaster response plans, the center aims to ensure everyone is safe during emergencies.

What’s Cooking at the Highland Center?

Madison Poche, the executive director, has taken it upon herself to present updates to the Caddo Parish Commission. One exciting highlight is the backup power and water facilities that will be in place at the center. This not only boosts preparedness but also ensures essential services are available when they’re needed most.

Earlier this week, the Highland Center successfully completed a brand-new water well that’s 175 feet deep. This will be a crucial lifeline during emergencies, providing the community with quick access to clean water, something that can make a significant difference in stressful situations.

Turning Plans into Reality

Currently, the Highland Center is in the approval stages, but everything is projected to be fully operational by the summertime. The motivation for this initiative stems from a power outage that occurred earlier in 2023, which brought forth concerns over emergency housing and resources in Shreveport.

The Highland Center is making bold strides to become Shreveport’s very first Community Lighthouse, a concept that started in New Orleans. The idea is to create a supportive network that communities can rely on when facing natural disasters. You’ll also find two designated Community Lighthouses in Shreveport already, including the Highland Center and Morning Star Baptist Church.

The Role of the Community Lighthouses

These Community Lighthouses serve a crucial purpose—they’re set to function as safe havens for those needing assistance during disasters. To make this vision a reality, the Highland Center is also in the process of applying for the Americorps program, which focuses on community service and impact.

New Job Opportunities and Collaborations

Adding to the excitement, the Highland Center has created eight new job positions. These roles will specifically aid local workforce development and include placements at the Caddo Parish Juvenile Justice Center. Local partners, including Basic Necessities and Goodwill’s Job Center, are stepping in to boost career readiness for youth in the area. This shows a committed effort to uplift the community on multiple fronts.

Solar Power: A Bright Idea!

The Highland Center is also eco-conscious! The center boasts solar panels on its roof, ensuring that there is always an alternative power source available during emergencies. This makes them even more prepared to serve the community when the unexpected strikes.

A Community-Focused Approach

Poche has highlighted an essential aspect of the initiative—establishing community-based disaster response hubs that are easily accessible within a 15-minute walk or drive for residents. This strategic placement encourages neighbor-to-neighbor assistance during tough times and allows first responders to focus on critical emergencies.

This ambitious Community Lighthouse project is receiving valuable support from the American Rescue Plan disaster response funds, along with private backing from the North Louisiana Interfaith Coalition. Collaboration with various partners aims to create robust crisis management plans through the installation of water wells at pilot project locations.

Building a Stronger Community Together

The leadership team at the Highland Center is genuinely committed to empowering the community and enhancing its ability to respond effectively to crises. With a proactive approach, the center is dedicated to fostering a culture of support, making sure that Shreveport residents are better equipped in times of need.

So, keep your eyes peeled for updates on the Highland Center as it moves toward becoming a beacon of hope and support in Shreveport! Together, the community is gearing up to shine bright when it matters most.