Community Challenge Grants Meet Needs Statewide

Six Louisiana organizations earned AARP Community Challenge grants to boost local services.

New Orleans: The Algiers Economic Development Foundation received $9,000 to install bike racks, a bicycle repair station and lighting on Kabel Drive; Bethlehem Lutheran Church received $40,000 to install a wheelchair lift; and the Dillard University Office of Community and Church Relations was awarded $10,000 to create a community garden and to hold healthy cooking demonstrations and health fairs.

Baton Rouge: The Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge received $20,000 to put up signage on a Scotlandville Parkway bike and walking trail.

Bunkie: The Center for Planning Excellence received $14,000 to help convert a city-owned vacant lot into a small park.

Thibodaux: The city won $8,000 to install benches and bicycle racks downtown, as well as along the Menard Pedestrian Bike Trail.