community
NORTH BATON ROUGE DEVELOPMENT BRINGS NEW OPPORTUNITIES A major new development is bringing hope and opportunity to North Baton Rouge. The BLVD at Harding, a planned $50 million grocery-anchored shopping center at Harding and Howell boulevards, is expected to open in fall 2027 and transform access to essential services for local families. The 100,000-square-foot development will feature a full-service grocery store, retail shops, medical offices, dining options, and spaces for small businesses. Leaders say the project will help combat food insecurity, create more than 150 jobs, and reduce travel burdens for residents. Supporters hope the investment will spark long-term economic growth and revitalize the surrounding community for generations to come. ■ theblvdatharding.com
COMMUNITY PANTRIES IN WALKER OFFER
SUPPORT FOR LOCAL FAMILIES Walker residents now have greater access to free, nutritious food thanks to two new community pantries installed by Whole Heart Health. Located at Faith Crossing United Methodist Church and Christine Palmer’s office on Florida Boulevard, the pantries were created to support individuals and families facing tight budgets or temporary food insecurity. Stocked with Whole Heart Health’s Manna Meals and additional snacks, the pantries provide convenient, dignity-centered nourishment for those in need. Officials say the goal is to “meet people where they are” and offer accessible support between paychecks. The initiative strengthens community care and helps ensure no family goes without a meal. ■ wholeheart.health
COOK OUT COMING TO BATON ROUGE A popular Southern fast-food chain is making its Louisiana debut in Baton Rouge. Cook Out recently purchased a building near LSU on West Lee Drive, marking the restaurant’s first location in the state. Known for its extensive menu of char-grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, quesadillas, and more than 40 milkshake flavors, the chain has built a loyal following across the South since opening in North Carolina in 1989. The new restaurant will join several popular dining spots near campus and is expected to become a favorite for local families, students, and late-night food lovers looking for affordable meals and variety. ■ cookout.com
CAT CAFÉ COMING TO BATON ROUGE Cat lovers in Baton Rouge will soon have a cozy new spot to relax and meet adoptable felines. Cat Haven is expanding into a larger facility near the Main Library that will include the city’s newest cat café. The nonprofit rescue organization, which has served the community since 1999, plans to open the new location by the end of 2026 at Shadows Lane. Along with providing more space for rescued cats, the café will offer families and animal lovers a fun, welcoming environment while helping connect cats with forever homes. The expansion supports Cat Haven’s ongoing mission to reduce feline overpopulation and promote adoption. ■ cathaven.org
8 JULY 2026 | BRPARENTS.COM
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