Habitat for Humanity affiliates serving western St. Tammany and Washington Parishes have announced plans to combine operations, creating a unified affiliate designed to strengthen long-term housing impact and ensure sustained service across both parishes.
The planned combination reflects a shared commitment to Habitat’s mission and a thoughtful response to the increasingly complex housing environment. Rising construction costs, insurance pressures, land constraints, and funding challenges have made it essential for nonprofit housing providers to operate with strong infrastructure, regional collaboration, and long-term sustainability in mind.
By aligning under a single organizational structure, the unified affiliate will be better positioned to support renewed and ongoing Habitat activities in Washington Parish while continuing established programs in western St. Tammany Parish. The combination allows the organization to responsibly rebuild capacity where needed, leverage shared expertise, and pursue opportunities that would be difficult for smaller, standalone operations.
“This step is about stewardship—of our mission, our resources, and our responsibility to the communities we serve,” said Terri Gage, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West. “The goal is not rapid expansion, but thoughtful, sustainable impact that can be maintained over time.”
Leaders emphasized that Habitat’s presence in Washington Parish has long been rooted in community commitment, and this combination provides a pathway to re-establish momentum in a way that is realistic, locally grounded, and aligned with available resources.
“This combination honors the history of Habitat’s work in Washington Parish while creating a stable foundation for future service,” said Brenda Williams, consultant and long-time Executive Director of Washington Habitat for Humanity. “It allows us to move forward with intention and care, ensuring that when activities occur, they are supported and sustainable.”
The organization is currently welcoming families to connect with its Homeownership Center in Mandeville, while also working to establish a local meeting space in Washington Parish, where meetings will be held by appointment.
In the months ahead, the organization will focus on:
- Completing governance and operational alignment
- Assessing community needs and existing capacity in both parishes
- Laying the groundwork for future Habitat activities in Washington Parish
- Maintaining transparency with partners, volunteers, and supporters throughout the transition
Specific program timelines and scope will be determined as planning progresses and resources are secured.
As part of the combination, the organization will adopt a new unified name that reflects the shared geography, values, and future vision of both parishes. Community members, partners, and supporters are invited to offer input and suggestions.
“We want a name that feels grounded in place and inclusive of the communities we serve,” said Terri Gage. “This is an opportunity for people across both parishes to help shape the identity of the organization moving forward.”
Information on how to participate in the naming process will be shared in the coming weeks through Habitat communications and partner channels.
Until a new name is finalized, both affiliates will continue operating under their current names.
