NEW ORLEANS, LA (July 8, 2025) - On Saturday, June 28, 2025, Jericho Road Episcopal Housing Initiative hosted its Bling Your Block Beautification Event at Saratoga Square in New Orleans’ historic Central City neighborhood. The event was co-hosted by the Neighborhood Development Foundation (NDF) with volunteer support from the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA).

This event marked the first in a two-part Bling Your Block summer series. A second event is planned for July, with additional volunteer support from members of the Lutheran Church.

Held in recognition of National Homeownership Month, the event highlighted Jericho Road’s ongoing commitment to strengthening neighborhoods, promoting residential stability, and building thriving communities across Southeast Louisiana.

As part of its holistic approach to community development and post-purchase homeowner support, Jericho Road brought together residents, volunteers, and community partners to enhance the appearance and spirit of the neighborhood. The initiative complemented the organization’s year-round programs, including financial coaching, home maintenance training, and community-building efforts. These beautification projects are especially meaningful for low- and moderate-income families, particularly seniors on fixed incomes, who may require additional support to maintain their homes.

The day began with welcome remarks and was followed by hands-on beautification projects. Dozens of residents, neighbors, and volunteers worked side by side to celebrate community pride and reaffirm their shared commitment to a vibrant and resilient Central City.

The event also served as the local kickoff for Katrina 20—a regional reflection marking 20 years of recovery, resilience, and rebuilding since Hurricane Katrina. Founded in 2006 by the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana in response to the storm, Jericho Road has become a trusted leader in neighborhood revitalization, blending affordable housing development, infrastructure investment, and resident engagement.

In 2012 and 2013, Jericho Road made a major investment in Saratoga Square with the construction of 14 affordable homes. Today, the organization continues to promote generational wealth through homeownership while advancing equity and infrastructure improvements in historically disinvested communities. Jericho Road isn’t just building houses—it’s building thriving communities.

“This Bling Your Block was not just about beautifying homes—it was about strengthening our neighborhoods and renewing our commitment to building generational wealth through homeownership,” said Nicole Barnes, Executive Director of Jericho Road. “We were proud to help launch Katrina 20 in the same neighborhood where our work began and to stand alongside residents and partners who share our vision for vibrant, stable communities.”

“NORA has been proud to partner with Jericho Road for years,” said Brenda M. Breaux, Executive Director of the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority. “We value this ongoing collaboration and look forward to even more impactful work together in the future.”

The event was attended by State Senator Royce Duplessis and supported by NOPD Sixth District Officer Erica Williams, both of whom underscored the importance of community collaboration and neighborhood investment.

Bling Your Block was made possible through the support of NDF and generous contributions from Hancock Whitney Bank, Sherwin-Williams, and The Home Depot. Volunteers from NORA were also on-site providing hands-on support throughout the day.

For more information, visit www.jerichohousing.org or contact Peter Davis at development@jerichohousing.org or (504) 321-1228.

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