Providing community grants is a meaningful and vital part of Entergy Louisiana’s commitment to improving lives across our state. Each year, we provide funding to organizations from every corner of the state that are supporting families and communities. Our support reaches far and wide, but we don’t always have the chance to see the results firsthand.
That’s why it was so meaningful for our team to visit The Shepherd’s Market, a local food pantry in Baton Rouge that recently received an Entergy community grant. Thanks to this support, the pantry was able to purchase a new refrigerator to replace one that was not keeping the proper temperature to store food safely.
“The Shepherd’s Market is deeply grateful to Entergy for its generous support and partnership. With the funding for a new commercial cooler, we are not only able to store more food, but we are able to offer our neighbors more nutritious food options and variety,” said Andrew Blackwood, The Shepherd’s Market Executive Director. “Our neighbors truly enjoy being able to bring home fresh high-quality produce – something made possible with the funding support from Entergy.”
The Shepherd’s Market is a 100 percent volunteer-run, client-choice food pantry. On average, they serve 35 families each day, nearly 400 families per month, and distribute more than 23,000 pounds of food to neighbors in need. While the pantry primarily serves residents of East Baton Rouge Parish, anyone seeking help is welcomed with compassion and care.
“Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy community,” said Cheri Ausberry, Entergy customer service manager. “Everyone deserves access to fresh food and to be treated with dignity and respect.”
When Taunya Williams, Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association, learned about the pantry’s need, she quickly recognized an opportunity to partner with Entergy to make a tangible difference. In addition to Entergy’s funding for the new refrigerator, the American Heart Association is providing nutritional resources, healthy recipe guides, and other tools to support families’ long-term well-being.
“Increasing nutrition security and promoting health equity are at the heart of the work I do and love,” said Williams. “For many families, community food pantries serve as a vital source of nutritious food. That’s why we’re committed to equipping local pantries with essential resources.”
At Entergy, we believe true community impact happens when we combine resources, partnerships, and people who care. The Shepherd’s Market is a shining example of what’s possible when we work together, and we’re proud to stand with them in their mission to feed families and strengthen our community.
