The Washington Parish Coalition on Human Services (WPCHS) held its June meeting at the ESM United Methodist Church.

Richard “Ned” Thomas addressed the group. Thomas is the Washington Parish President and his goal is to better ensure and preserve the quality of life of the residents in Washington Parish. Thomas stated that the Washington Parish Government received an outstanding Audit Report and that the parish is financially fit. According to Thomas, Washington Parish is listed as 5th in the state in having the lowest taxes. He encouraged everyone to shop locally so we can keep our tax dollars in the parish. Thomas has an open-door policy and welcomes input from the citizens of the parish.

Reports were given by members. Rusty Fornea reported on the Prevention Connection meeting that takes place at 8:30 a.m. immediately before the WPCHS meeting. Rhonda Gunnell gave an overview of the newly released Caring Communities Youth Survey (CCYS) at the Prevention Connection Meeting. Rusty Fornea also gave an update on the DFC and LAPFS grants. General announcements were made by members and then the meeting was adjourned by President Rhonda Gunnell.

Attendees of the June meeting included Glory Davis, Emma Ross, Regina Meyerchick, Rhonda Gunnell, Robin Grigsby, Rupert Anaiza, Taffy Morrison, Rusty Fornea, Veronica Thomas, Christian Foster, Julia Gibbs, Kay Kay Warner, Ana Lopez, Alva Smith, Wendy Henley, Brittny Costella, D. Ray Phelps, Jennifer Batina, Gloria Kates, Thomas Mitchell, Stephanie Solar, Angela Houlemand, Levi Lewis Sr., Gaynell, Franklin, Stephanie Miller, Terrey Scheuermann, Richard Thomas Jr., Sheila Seal, and Joshua Johnson.

The next scheduled meeting for WPCHS will be on Tuesday, July 23, at 9:30 a.m. at ESM United Methodist Church. Meetings are open to the public. For more information, contact Rhonda Gunnell or Rusty Fornea at 985-735-0160.