A new 13,000-square-foot facility for FoodNet Food Bank is coming soon to 613 W. Simcoe Street in Lafayette, right next to the historic St. Joseph Diner.
Acquired by Catholic Charities of Acadiana in 2019, FoodNet has grown into one of the organization’s most vital, volunteer-driven programs. This project marks a major step forward in their mission to meet the needs of Acadiana’s most vulnerable residents, especially during times of crisis. The new building will serve as FoodNet’s permanent home, designed with long-term resilience, community impact, and day-to-day efficiency in mind.
613 W. Simcoe, the future site for the new FoodNet facility
Nearly 4,000 square feet will be dedicated to the food bank operations. This space will feature a high-capacity racking system, forklift access for managing large donations, and a backup generator to keep things moving in the event of a power outage. Connected to that will be a 2,200-square-foot climate-controlled dry storage area, as well as 1,700 square feet of cold storage space for refrigerated and frozen items. With this setup, FoodNet can safely accept and distribute a wider variety of shelf-stable and perishable goods.
One of the most meaningful additions is the 1,470-square-foot Client Choice Pantry. This space will provide a grocery store-style experience where clients can select items that best fit their needs and preferences. It’s a simple but powerful shift that brings dignity to the process while also reducing food waste.
Provided plans for the new FoodNet project
The new building will also include a 1,500-square-foot donations intake and sorting area. This portion of the facility will support not only FoodNet, but also other Catholic Charities programs such as the St. Joseph Shelter, the Stella Maris Hygiene Center, and the organization’s permanent supportive housing efforts. Having a centralized space for donations will help streamline how items are received, organized, and distributed.
Rounding out the facility, about 2,230 square feet will be dedicated to staff offices and a fully equipped conference room. This will give staff and volunteers a permanent space for meetings, training sessions, and collaboration, all while cutting down on the need for leased office space and helping donor dollars go further.
Shot looking toward the new site of FoodNet with St. Joseph Diner in view
“We are building capacity in our ability to respond to both natural disaster, and the everyday situational crisis of food insecurity,” said Ben Broussard, Chief of External Affairs for Catholic Charities of Acadiana. This new facility supports that mission and ensures FoodNet is positioned to serve the region both now and in the future.
For more information about the project or ways to get involved, contact Ben Broussard at ben@catholiccharitiesacadiana.org or call (337) 235-4972 x1208. You may also visit their website at http://catholiccharitiesacadiana.org.
