thrive
Helping Families with Dignity
BY AMANDA MILLER
F ounded in 2020 through the (LOCC) has quickly grown from a small foster closet into a vital resource serving families across Ascension Parish and beyond. What began as a project focused solely on foster children soon revealed a much larger need in the community. “We quickly realized the need was greater than foster children,” says founding member and board president Candace Melancon. “There are grandparents, aunts, uncles, and families facing difficult situations who suddenly find themselves caring for children and struggling to make ends meet.” Leadership Ascension program, Loving Our Community’s Children
Today, LOCC provides free clothing, diapers, hygiene products, beds, cribs, car seats, toys, and other essentials to foster families, caregivers, and families experiencing hardship. Whether responding to a house fire, financial crisis, or a child aging out of foster care, the organization works to ensure families can access what they need without financial strain. Melancon shares the story of one mother who reluctantly came to LOCC after losing food assistance because her husband earned slightly above the qualifying income limit. “She was very proud and hesitant to ask for help,” Melancon explains. “But she had been in foster care herself and was determined to break that cycle for her children.”
One of the organization’s defining features is its commitment to preserving dignity. Rather than handing out pre-packed bags, families are invited to “shop” for items in a welcoming environment where children can even choose a few toys of their own. “We want them to feel proud walking out the door,” says Melancon. “These children are already vulnerable, and we want them to have nice things and feel cared for.” LOCC is entirely volunteer-run, with no paid employees and donated spaces in Gonzales and Donaldsonville. Volunteers sort donations, assist families during shopping appointments, and help organize inventory. Community support also plays a major role, with local schools, businesses, and residents frequently hosting donation drives. As demand continues to grow, Melancon hopes to eventually secure a permanent building and hire a staff member dedicated to outreach and grant writing. “The need is growing faster than we can keep up with,” she says. “But, I don’t think that we’ve had a time where we haven’t been able to help someone with what they need.” Above all, Melancon hopes more families learn about LOCC’s services, and more community members discover ways to support the organization’s mission of helping
children and families thrive. For more information, visit loccascension.org.
16 JULY 2026 | BRPARENTS.COM
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