Eight Days of Hope to announce 2027 rebuilding effort in Avoyelles

Organization plans eight-day project to assist families still recovering from June flooding

A national disaster relief organization is planning to return to Avoyelles Parish in 2027 to help families still recovering from the devastating flooding caused by Tropical Storm Arthur in June.

Eight Days of Hope will officially announce its plans during a press conference at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at the Avoyelles LSU AgCenter, located at 8592 LA 1 in Mansura.

The organization is preparing a major eight-day rebuilding effort intended to assist residents whose homes and lives remain affected by the historic flooding.

Representatives from Eight Days of Hope and local recovery partners are expected to announce the dates and location of the rebuilding project, along with information about how families needing assistance can apply.

State Sen. Heather Cloud and State Rep. Daryl Deshotel issued a joint statement expressing appreciation for the organization's plans to assist Avoyelles Parish and recognizing the partnership between Eight Days of Hope and Building a Better Avoyelles.

"Since the historic flooding caused by Tropical Storm Arthur, we have witnessed firsthand the devastation so many families across Avoyelles Parish have endured. But we have also seen the incredible strength, faith, and resilience of this community," the lawmakers stated.

They described the announcement as an important development for residents who continue facing challenges months after the disaster.

"The announcement that 8 Days of Hope is coming to Avoyelles Parish is truly an answered prayer for families still struggling to recover. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has worked to make this possible."

Cloud and Deshotel also highlighted the partnership with Building a Better Avoyelles, which will bring together local recovery efforts and the national organization's rebuilding experience and resources.

"This collaboration brings together the dedication of our local community with the experience and resources of an organization committed to helping families rebuild. It is a powerful example of what can happen when people come together with a shared mission of serving others," they stated.

The June flooding caused extensive damage throughout Avoyelles Parish, leaving numerous families facing repairs, financial hardships and other challenges months after the disaster.

The lawmakers emphasized that recovery remains an ongoing effort and that affected families have not been forgotten.

"From the beginning, our commitment has been to ensure these families are not forgotten. There is still work ahead, but today brings renewed hope and a brighter future for so many."

Cloud extended an invitation to the community to attend Friday's announcement and show support for the parish's continued recovery.

Additional details about the 2027 rebuilding project, including the dates, location and application process for families seeking assistance, are expected to be released during the press conference.