Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services

Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services

Coalition of healthcare, law enforcement, faith based, educational based, and concerned citizens focus on identifying issues related to alcohol and drug use, healthcare, and social services in our communities. Sharing information on the issues and networking with the services available.

Photo Caption: Shown above, from left: Thomas “Rusty” Fornea, ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director; Sonja Newman, UWay; Emma Ross, WPCHS President

The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its monthly meeting on October 25, 2025, at the ADAPT Office. The featured guest speaker was Sonja Newman of United Way of Southeast Louisiana, who delivered an informative presentation on The State of ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed). 

Ms. Newman provided an in-depth look at the financial realities facing many working families in Louisiana. She explained that ALICE households earn above the federal poverty level, yet still struggle to afford basic necessities such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare. According to current data, 50% of households in Louisiana—and 59% in Washington Parish—fall below the ALICE threshold, highlighting the significant and widespread economic challenges faced by low-wage workers with minimal savings.

She emphasized that stable households are the cornerstone of strong communities, and outlined United Way’s commitment to helping families build financial security. Through targeted advocacy, strategic investments in local programs, and accessible financial education resources—including the Prosperity Center in Bogalusa—United Way continues working to expand opportunities and strengthen community resilience.

Ms. Newman closed with a powerful reminder that “it’s expensive to be poor,” underscoring the need for legislative action and sustained community support to ensure all households have the opportunity to thrive.

Photo Caption: Shown above, from left: Emma Ross, WPCHS President; Kenneth Martinez, SLLS; Paula Charles, SLLS; SLLS Representative; Thomas “Rusty” Fornea, ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director; 

The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its monthly meeting on September 23, 2025, at the ADAPT Office.

Guest speakers Paula Charles and Kenneth Martinez from Southeast Louisiana Legal Services presented on Domestic Violence Awareness and Protective Orders in Louisiana.

 They noted that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and reported a significant rise in protective orders in Washington Parish—an estimated 150 filings in 2025, up from 49 in 2022. The speakers discussed the difficulties many victims face in recognizing abuse, the importance of survivor-centered communication, and how protective orders play a vital role in safety and stability.

 Their presentation also covered how domestic violence affects divorce proceedings, the differences between civil and criminal protective orders, and the broader protections civil orders provide, including custody and financial support. They also highlighted ongoing challenges such as childcare barriers, substance use issues—including fentanyl—and the need for consistent 26-week batterers’ intervention programs, trauma-informed approaches, and strong community support for survivors and their families.

Photo Caption: Shown above, from left: Representative Dr. John Wyble; Emma Ross, WPCHS President; Thomas “Rusty” Fornea, ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director

The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its monthly meeting on August 26, 2025, at the ADAPT Office.

The guest speaker, State Representative Dr. John Wyble, highlighted Louisiana’s recent progress in education, noting the state has reached its highest national ranking ever—32nd in the country. He praised teachers for their vital role in this achievement and emphasized that families and educators are the two strongest influences on a child’s success.

Dr. Wyble stressed the importance of early learning, particularly ensuring students achieve literacy and numeracy by third grade. His long-term vision is for every student—from Kindergarten through graduation—to be prepared for college or the workforce.

He also shared updates on Louisiana’s improvements in business climate, workforce development, and education over the past 18 months. Household tax relief, workforce initiatives, and strong business investment are contributing to statewide economic growth. Dr. Wyble noted that Washington Parish has one of the lowest business tax burdens in Louisiana, helping attract employers and create jobs.

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to advancing education, supporting teachers, and expanding opportunities that strengthen Louisiana’s workforce and economy for future generations.

Photo Caption: Shown above, from left: Thomas “Rusty” Fornea, ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director; Desmond Weary, Jr., Brilliant Mindz Student Vice President (VHS); Malia Morris, Brilliant Mindz Student President (BHS); Emma Ross, WPCHS President; and Dana Walker, Brilliant Mindz Executive Director.

The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its monthly meeting on July 22, 2025, at the ADAPT Office.

Rusty Fornea announced the release of ADAPT’s first Public Service Announcement, produced in partnership with the Washington Parish Youth Coalition. The new PSA was screened during the meeting and is now available on ADAPT’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

The guest speaker was Dana Walker, Founder and Executive Director of Brilliant Mindz, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth and families in Washington Parish. Ms. Walker delivered an inspiring presentation outlining the organization’s broad range of services, including after-school programs, tutoring, college tours, literacy initiatives, and outreach for elderly and underserved community members.

She also highlighted the Cribs for Kids program, which provides safe sleep education and cribs to families in need—86 cribs have been distributed locally to participants who completed the class. In addition, she shared updates on the organization’s 7th annual STEM and Life Skills Camp, which engaged 140 youth this summer.

Two Brilliant Mindz student leaders, Desmond Weary, Jr. and Malia Morris, spoke about their experiences, including participation in the Bioneers program and their recent educational trip to California. Their testimonies underscored the powerful impact Brilliant Mindz has on young people in the community.

Photo Caption: Shown above, from left: Thomas “Rusty” Fornea, ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director; Sonnet Ireland, Library Director; Emma Ross, WPCHS President

The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its monthly meeting on June 24, 2025, at the ADAPT Office.

The guest speaker was Sonnet Ireland, Director of Washington Parish Libraries, who provided an overview of the parish’s four existing library branches and announced plans for a fifth location opening soon in Angie.

Ms. Ireland highlighted the many services offered through the library system, including laptop and hotspot checkouts, copy and fax services, and free access to online resources such as Ancestry.com, NICHE Academy, and Resume Builder. She also shared information about popular programs available at local branches, including Storytime, Teen Night, Recipe Swap, and the Summer Reading Program: Color Our World.

She emphasized the library’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and expanding access to educational tools for residents of all ages.