An Act of Generosity: Energy industry helps feed hundreds in Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — In Baton Rouge, a powerful act of generosity is bringing comfort and nourishment to those who need it most.

On Thursday, the St. Vincent de Paul dining room—long known for serving meals to the hungry—received a donation that would allow them to feed hundreds, thanks to the Grow Louisiana Coalition.

“Serving it with lots of love and tender care,” said Denise Terrance, Dining Room Director at St. Vincent de Paul, describing the heart behind their daily mission.

The donation came from an unexpected turn of events. The Grow Louisiana Coalition had originally ordered the food for a large event that was ultimately canceled. Rather than letting it go to waste, they saw an opportunity to make a difference.

“In the spirit of Louisiana energy companies and the generosity they always show their communities, they are always trying to be a good neighbor,” said Heather Sessa, a spokesperson for the coalition.

Sessa explained the decision was simple. “We reached out to St. Vincent de Paul to see if they could use the meals from Industry Day to serve hot meals to the nearly five hundred people that come here every day for lunch.”

For St. Vincent de Paul, the donation was more than welcome—it was transformative.

“We didn’t have to cook for today, and we can do more prep for the rest of the week,” Terrance said. “We’re here 365 days, so any prep that we can get ahead of time is truly a blessing to my cooks and my staff.”

While Grow Louisiana is no stranger to community support, Thursday’s act of kindness stood out as a reminder of how industry and charity can work hand in hand.

Organizers hope this donation will inspire others to look for their own ways to give back.