South Central Louisiana Human Services Authority

19/09/2025

Together, we can make REAL (Restores Every Aspect of Life) for everyone.

15/09/2025

SCLHSA attended the Thriving Together: Health, Resources, & Literacy Journey and the S.A.R.A.H. Rally last week.

11/09/2025

Da Cajun Column – Light The Night Candlelight Vigil.

I was honored to sit down with Jazmin Burns DuBois of St Mary Parish Youth Prevention Coalition, the dedicated organizer behind the Light the Night Candlelight Vigil & Walk of Hope. This powerful event is more than just a gathering — it’s a space for healing, remembrance, and unity. It’s about honoring those we’ve lost, supporting those who are struggling, and spreading a message of hope that you are not alone.

1. What does Light the Night mean to you personally, and why is it important to hold this vigil in our community?

Jazmin Dubois: Light the Night is deeply personal to me because it represents both remembrance and hope. It’s a moment to honor the lives we’ve lost to su***de while also standing together as a community to say, “You are not alone.” In a parish like ours, where neighbors look out for one another, this vigil gives us a safe space to come together, break the silence, and shine light into what often feels like darkness.

2. How does this event support those who have lost loved ones to su***de, and what role does community healing play in that process?

Jazmin Dubois: Losing someone to su***de is a unique kind of grief—it’s heavy with unanswered questions and deep pain. This event gives survivors of loss a place to honor their loved one, to hear “me too,” and to know they aren’t carrying this burden by themselves. Healing doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens when we share our stories, lift each other up, and walk through the pain together. That’s why community healing is so powerful—it reminds us we’re stronger side by side.

3. What message are you hoping attendees—especially those grieving or struggling—will take away from the event?

Jazmin Dubois: The message is simple: you matter, and you’re not alone. For those grieving, I hope they feel surrounded by love and support. For those struggling, I hope they see that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And for everyone, I want them to leave knowing that even in the darkest moments, there is always light to be found in connection, compassion, and hope.

4. Can you tell us about some of the resources or support systems that will be available at or after the vigil for those in need?

Jazmin Dubois: At the vigil, we’ll have local behavioral health providers, crisis line information, and coalition members available to connect people directly to resources. We’ll share information about the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline, local counseling services, peer support groups, and prevention programs happening right here in St. Mary Parish. And beyond that night, our coalition is committed to walking alongside anyone in need—we’re here for continued support, not just a one-time event.

5. In what ways can the community continue the conversation about su***de prevention and mental health beyond this event?

Jazmin Dubois: The most important step is to keep talking. Break the stigma by checking in on friends, having honest conversations with your kids, coworkers, or neighbors, and sharing resources openly.

As a community, we can support prevention programs in schools, attend awareness events, and volunteer with organizations working on mental health initiatives. Su***de prevention isn’t just one night—it’s an ongoing commitment to building a culture where every person feels seen, valued, and supported.

10/09/2025

It's ***dePreventionDay 💙

Today, we honor those we've lost and share resources to support those who are struggling. It's okay to reach out for help. You're never alone.

The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7 across the U.S. Call, text, or chat 988 to connect with a skilled, compassionate counselor. For more resources, visit 988lifeline.org.

08/09/2025

Struggling with your mental health, feeling overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to? You’re not alone and you don’t have to go through it alone.
The 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is here for you; anytime, anywhere.
📞 Call or text 988.

Compassionate help. Anytime. Anywhere.

03/09/2025

Self care is a priority, not a luxury.

29/08/2025

28/08/2025

Reminder that Monday is !

We will be closed next Monday for . Our CALL Line (https://www.sclhsa.org/call-line) is alway available after hours, on weekends, and holidays for our clients. 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is also available for those in crisis.
We will be back to our normal hours on Tuesday, September 2nd. Have a great Labor Day Weekend!

27/08/2025

The final Opioid Awareness Event is happening this afternoon at the library in Bourg. We hope to see you there!

27/08/2025

Our Louisiana Spirit team extends their heartfelt thanks to the communities of Assumption, Lafourche, Terrebonne, St. Mary, St. James, St. John, and St. Charles parishes for supporting their disaster relief efforts.

The program will conclude on October 3, 2025, but until then, our team remains committed to sharing resources and helping our communities stay strong.

26/08/2025

We will be closed next Monday for . Our CALL Line (https://www.sclhsa.org/call-line) is alway available after hours, on weekends, and holidays for our clients. 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is also available for those in crisis.
We will be back to our normal hours on Tuesday, September 2nd. Have a great Labor Day Weekend!