Bayou District Foundation

The Bayou District Foundation leads a comprehensive community revitalization effort in New Orleans' Gentilly neighborhood, providing families the opportunity to build better lives and reach their highest potential. BDF works to achieve this mission through a holistic approach to community revitalization that incorporates high-quality educational opportunities - from cradle to college - and access to mixed-income housing, healthcare, fresh groceries, recreation and community programming.

Bayou District Foundation (BDF), which since 2006 has led a capstone comprehensive community revitalization effort in New Orleans, serves as the "community quarterback" for a diverse group of organizations in the city's Gentilly neighborhood. BDF functions as the visionary leader for the Bayou District, enhancing community collaboration and cooperation and bringing diverse entities together to work effectively towards a common goal: breaking the cycle of poverty for families in New Orleans' 7th Ward.

Testimonials

"The Emeril Lagasse Foundation is pleased to support the innovative and impactful initiatives of the Bayou District Foundation. BDF leads the field nationally in place based, holistic community revitalization aimed at helping children and families break the cycle of poverty. We share their vision of bringing opportunity, wellness and vibrancy to deserving communities nationwide. Affordable housing and excellent education are not enough to truly transform lives - we applaud BDF's attention to the "whole child," addressing health, nutrition, family stability and community support needed for the next generation to grow and thrive."
- Brian Kish, President, Emeril Lagasse Foundation