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Nonprofits promote mental-health month and fundraising events May 2 in Iberia area
Summary
The Iberia Mental Health Initiative and Shea Hope nonprofit representatives presented buddy-benches in schools and invited residents to a Bayside run and a May 2 wing cookoff fundraiser in Franklin to support survivors of domestic violence and outreach programs.
Local nonprofits plugged two May 2 events during the council’s public comment period: the Iberia Mental Health Initiative described its buddy-bench program in elementary schools and invited residents to the Bayside run to raise funds and awareness for mental-health projects; Shea Hope announced a downtown Franklin wing cookoff to benefit survivors of domestic violence, explained categories and wristband pricing and provided contact information for registration.
Dean and Katherine Wattney (Iberia Mental Health Initiative) outlined the buddy-bench project, which the group said has been installed at all but four elementary campuses in Iberia Parish and is intended to reduce student loneliness and teach empathy. A third-grade student, Azie Lache, described a personal experience of being invited to play after sitting on a buddy bench.
Kelly Canu of Shea Hope explained the wing cookoff structure (sauces, dry rub/seasoning, people’s choice and overall wing), wristbands for sampling ($20), activities for children, and a chicken-drop 50/50 fundraiser; proceeds support domestic-violence survivor services and local shelter operations in New Iberia and Franklin.
What happens next: Both groups will continue outreach and accept registration and volunteers; the council and staff acknowledged community support and provided contact phone numbers for registration.
