Dear Community Member,
Over the past week, I’ve been meeting with and listening to families in our community about how the government shutdown has impacted their lives. While active-duty personnel were paid at the last minute, hundreds of civilian employees and Air Reserve Technicians (ARTs), the people who keep Barksdale’s mission moving, have now gone without pay for a month. Many federal employees across our region are facing the same challenges.
Civil workers and reservist ART personnel are among those most affected, earning too much to qualify for assistance but too little to absorb two missed paychecks. Many who are still reporting to work are taking second jobs, depleting their savings, and struggling to cover basic expenses like gas, childcare, and bills. Unfortunately, many of these families don’t qualify for food pantries, unemployment, or loans, and are quietly doing their best to stay afloat.
Our local food bank is running low, and Catholic Charities and other partners are stretched thin. To help bridge this gap, we are coordinating a Community Relief Initiative to collect and distribute food, essential supplies and monetary resources, without restrictions, to anyone in need.
Community Relief Initiative – Northwest Louisiana
Collect and distribute food freely to those impacted financially by the shutdown, no paperwork, no barriers.
Fund the support organization to meet urgent needs
Share information among local organizations to reach more families faster.
Below are several organizations already stepping up to fill this gap through food assistance, gift cards, and other direct support. In just one hour yesterday, FRST received seven applications for help. The need is real, but so is the response.
Local Partners & Resources the Community Can Support:
Northwest Louisiana Military Support Foundation
A Bossier Chamber subsidiary.
Funds go directly to those in need.
Donations are tax deductible.
As requested, our friend Eric at FRST has asked that we help facilitate donations as he continues to support so many in need. Despite being furloughed himself, Eric, a veteran, has stepped up immensely to assist others during this difficult time.
Funds will be sent directly to FRST.care, which has already helped more than 50 reservists since earlier this week. Those seeking assistance have reached out through FRST’s online form, requesting help with housing, utilities, food, gas, childcare, car expenses, and other essential needs due to missed paychecks.
Catholic Charities of North Louisiana
Can help anyone, no restrictions on military status, veteran status, income etc. Many federal workers can use this resource.
Provides rent and utility assistance. Waiving the in-person class requirement for this situation (money school) for financial literacy class. They have limited unrestricted grant left.
https://www.ccnla.org/donate/ | 318-865-0200
Eastwood Baptist Church
Accepting donations and distributing groceries.
Items needed: toiletries, toilet paper, detergent, paper towels, feminine products, diapers (all sizes), rice, pasta, sauce, peanut butter, jelly, soup, canned meat, grits, cereal.
2810 US-80, Haughton, LA
eastwoodbaptist.com | 318-532-2652 or 318-949-9433
The Simple Church
Will collect donations for pantry stable items and basic necessities and cleaning supplies.
130 Boardwalk Blvd., Bossier City, LA 71111
Sunday Services: 9 | 10 | 11 AM
https://www.thesimplechurch.tv/ | 318-752-2320
First Bossier
Will collect donations for pantry stable items in their church office Monday - Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
2910 E. Texas St., Bossier City, LA 71111
https://www.firstbossier.com/ | 318-746-7940
We are seeking a few additional collection sites and help in distribution to expand our reach. If you are interested in participating, please let us know so we can coordinate efforts efficiently.
Contact Your Representatives
In addition to donating or volunteering, please consider reaching out to your local, state, and federal representatives to share how these furloughs are affecting families in our community. Your voice can help ensure continued attention and resources for those impacted.
Find your legislators here: https://www.legis.la.gov/legis/findmylegislators.aspx
This community always shows up for each other, and I know the folks we help today will pay that kindness forward when they can. While we’re all hoping pay resumes on November 15, the next few days are still really important.
Thanks so much for your compassion, support, and willingness to step up for those who serve us all.
With much gratitude,
Northwest Louisiana Military Support Foundation
Krista Augustson
krista@bossierchamber.com | Office: 318-746-0252
The Mission & Vision of the NWLA Military Support Foundation
The Northwest Louisiana Military Support Foundation (NWLA MSF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is dedicated to coordinating meaningful community support for military families across Northwest Louisiana. With a mission to unite local resources, organizations, and volunteers, NWLA MSF ensures that service members and their loved ones receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
Our vision is to build a strong, connected community where military families are celebrated, supported, and honored for their sacrifices. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to foster lasting appreciation and improve the quality of life for those who serve.
Driven by Local Advocacy and Community Leaders
The NWLA Military Support Foundation is led by the Military Relations Committee of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce, a dedicated group that advocates for military families in Northwest Louisiana. This committee works to improve quality of life, promote the area as a top choice for military assignments and retirement, and foster strong connections between the civilian and military communities. Through collaboration and communication, they champion support for service members and their families across the region.
Who We Serve
Supporting military families is vital in Northwest Louisiana, a region that proudly hosts a diverse and active military population. This includes over 8,000 Active Duty Air Force members, along with thousands of reservists and National Guard personnel—including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Marine Reserve, Air Force Reserve, and the Louisiana Army National Guard. With such a strong military presence, community support plays a critical role in enhancing the lives of those who serve and their families.