Bogalusa Rebirth: Not just building homes; building HOPE!

Published 10:00 am Friday, July 25, 2025

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Gladys Magee
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As a certified Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) through the Louisiana Housing Corporation, Bogalusa Rebirth, a local non-profit organization, is committed to creating safe, decent, and affordable housing while eradicating blight in our most historic neighborhoods. As we build and sell homes for local families, a portion of the proceeds generated from those sales can be set-aside and reinvesting into activities that include critical needs repairs for low-income residents.

A powerful example of the impact of these funds is the story of Ms. Gladys Magee, a long-time resident of the Poplas Quarters neighborhood in Bogalusa. Ms. Magee not only navigates her own health challenges but selflessly serves as a full-time caregiver for her niece with special needs. Like many residents in our community, they live in a home that lacked basic accessibility features necessary for safe and daily living, placing both their health and independence at risk.

Thanks to the Critical Needs Repair Program and through funds generated from the sales of newly constructed homes, Bogalusa Rebirth was able to provide a grant that enabled the installation of an ADA-accessible roll-in shower. This single essential upgrade has restored a level of functionality, independence, and safety to their daily lives. It is a meaningful demonstration of how basic accommodation can transform a home into a true place of healing. This is not just a repair—it is an investment into a family’s quality of life.

The Critical Needs Repair Program is entirely community driven. Every dollar that supports homeowners like Ms. Magee comes from the resale of homes built by Bogalusa Rebirth. This sustainable grant model ensures that profits do not leave the community but are reinvested directly into the neighborhoods that need them most—serving elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and low- to moderate-income families. It is a full-circle, sustainable cycle of local reinvestment and revitalization.

“This is what community mission-driven work looks like! It is what happens when we choose to believe in our neighbors—not just by building homes, but by building hope”, said Director Wendy Dupont. “When we commit to making sure every community member has a safe and livable home, and a healthy space to live and thrive, we create a stronger, more compassionate Bogalusa for all. At Bogalusa Rebirth, we truly understand that progress means no one is left behind.”

To every individual who has supported Bogalusa Rebirth by purchasing a home, donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness—thank you. You are part of the rebirth, you are part of the solution. We look forward to all the opportunities to come.

Special thanks to Nobles Construction who completed the renovation

To learn more about our work or to apply for the Critical Needs Repair Program, visit www. BogalusaRebirth.com or call our office (985) 735-SAVE. Funds are limited and will be dispersed on a first come, first serve basis.

To make a tax-deductible charitable donation to our efforts, please email us at HomebuyersSaveBogalusa@hotmail.com or mail a check directly to Bogalusa Rebirth, 305 Ave B, Suite 111, Bogalusa, La. 70427