thrive
BEYOND THE STORM: How United Cajun Navy Shows Up Every Day F or many Louisiana families, the United Cajun Navy is known for one thing: showing up when disaster strikes. all come through the warehouse at some point. But these items don't sit for long. “We’ve got to keep it moving in and out,” BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
“A lot of times, it’s grandparents raising grandchildren,” he says. “They’re on fixed incomes, and when prices go up, that money doesn’t go as far. So anything we can do to help—it matters.” That focus on real, everyday challenges continues to shape the organization’s work. Rather than trying to do everything alone, the Cajun Navy partners with other groups, connecting families to the right resources and filling in the gaps where they can. “We’ve gotten so big that we work with other organizations,” he says. “If someone has a specific need, we connect them to the peo- ple who can help and then support however we can.”That approach lets them connect families with the right resources while focus- ing their efforts where they’re needed most. And while disaster relief will always be part of their identity, there’s more to their story. The United Cajun Navy isn’t just there to serve families on their worst days. It’s there in the everyday moments, too. Because in Loui- siana and across the world, recovery isn’t just about rebuilding after a storm—It’s about having support all year long. To learn more, visit unitedcajunnavy.org.
When hurricanes hit or floodwaters rise, they’re often among the first on the scene. But what many don’t see is the work happening outside of the storms. Behind the scenes, the organization has grown into something much bigger than emergency response. Today, it’s a nationwide network, while still serving as a steady, everyday support system for families across Louisiana. “We figured out how to operate outside of a disaster,” says the organization’s president, Todd Terrell. “There’s always something going on—something people need.” On any given day, that work starts inside their warehouse in Baton Rouge. It’s not pol- ished or picture-perfect. It’s busy, constantly moving, and filled with everything from basic necessities to unexpected donations. Volun- teers sort through boxes of items, organizing what will eventually make its way into the hands of families who need it. Clothing, jackets, hygiene products, school supplies, toys, furniture, and even appliances
he explains. “It’s stuff people will need eventually—diapers, cleaning supplies, jackets. Every little bit helps somebody.” That “every little bit” adds up in a big way. Each year, the organization gives away more than 100,000 jackets and hundreds of thousands of toys, along with essential items like diapers, feminine products, and household supplies. But the impact goes beyond what’s stored in their warehouse. Throughout the year, the Cajun Navy hosts and supports events that directly reach families in the community. From fishing tournaments where hundreds of kids receive free rods, to school events where students are given ties and supplies, the goal is simple: meet needs that might otherwise go unmet. At the recent Hondo Rodeo Fest in April, they gave away more than 10,000 belts. It’s a simple item, but one that can make a real difference for families stretching tight budgets.
16 JUNE 2026 | BRPARENTS.COM
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