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NEW ORLEANS, LA (Nov 9, 2026) - VOA Southeast Louisiana (VOASELA) has been awarded four major grants from federal and local partners, bringing more than $5.6 million in new multi-year funding to our region. These awards strengthen our work in recovery, reentry, prevention and opportunity, so we can meet Southeast Louisiana's challenges today and, in the years ahead.
"These awards are a vote of confidence in the people we serve and in the dedicated staff who walk alongside them every day," said Voris Vigee, President & CEO of VOASELA.
Supporting Mothers and Babies
SAMHSA Pregnant and Postpartum Women (PPW) | $2.625 million over five years ($525,000 per year)
This grant helps VOASELA support women facing substance use challenges during pregnancy and the months after birth, a powerful window for change; giving mothers and children a healthier start.
A Fresh Start Through Work
RESTART, U.S. Department of Labor | $5.1 million over three years; about $1.3 million for VOASELA ($475,000 per year)
VOASELA is proud to be a part of this Department of Labor initiative in partnerships with VOA, Inc. and VOA Texas affiliate. VOASELA’s allocation of $1.3 million will help participants gain job training, coaching and/or placement. A steady job supports families, strengthens neighborhoods and builds confidence that carries people forward.
Fighting the Opioid Crisis at Home
St. Tammany Parish Opioid Abatement, St. Tammany Parish Government | $500,000 over two years ($250,000 per year), with an optional third year, beginning in January of 2027
The opioid crisis has affected families across our region. With this award, VOASELA will provide opioid abatement services for St. Tammany residents, showing what is possible when local government and community organizations work side by side.
Opening Doors for Young People
Transitioning Gang-Involved Youth into Higher Education, U.S. Departments of Labor and Education | $1.25 million over three years (about $417,000 per year)
A young person's past does not have to decide their future. VOASELA will help gang-involved youth take real steps toward college and career. When young people see a path forward, families grow stronger and neighborhoods grow safer.
Ready for What Comes Next
These four grants empower individuals and families to build new skills and strengthen existing ones, opening the door to a better quality of life. By identifying and securing resources for Southeast Louisiana, we help build a stronger community that is better equipped for the future. We are deeply grateful to SAMHSA, the U.S. Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Education, and St. Tammany Parish Government for their trust and partnership.
Funding opens the door, but community keeps it open. Volunteer, donate, refer someone who needs support, or partner with us. Visit VOASELA.org to learn more.
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