A new domestic violence shelter has opened in Cenla, offering survivors a safe space to heal and rebuild their lives. ‘Maison de la Paix’ — French for House of Peace — is the latest expansion from Faith House of Acadiana. Faith House is a nonprofit that has served victims of domestic violence across Louisiana for decades. Maison de la Paix is located in Avoyelles Parish, the shelter aims to fill a gap in services for the region.

“Initially, we’ll open up about 12 rooms in the facility for people,” said Faith House Executive Director Billi Lacombe. “The facility will hold approximately 100 people once we’re at full capacity, and that includes adults and children who are survivors of domestic violence. We’re expecting to have the shelter open in the next few weeks, and so we’re very excited about this opportunity to serve survivors here in Central Louisiana.”

Local businesses, volunteers, and church groups donated supplies, helped furnish rooms, and assisted with the design to create comforting, home-like spaces for future residents, making this a true community effort. 

Louisiana continues to struggle with high rates of domestic violence, making the shelter’s opening very timely. The state has ranked among the top five in the nation for domestic homicides nearly every year since 1997 according to the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence. More recently, data from the Louisiana Department of Health shows that in 2021, two-thirds of female homicide victims were killed with a firearm and most frequently by a partner or ex-partner.