FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Project Lazarus Celebrates Restored Wellness Center with Ribbon-Cutting Event
New Orleans, LA – October 14, 2025 — The Greater New Orleans community took a significant step toward healing and expanded housing and wellness programming support today, as Project Lazarus, an apostolate of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, celebrated the renovation of its Wellness Center with an on-site ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The Wellness Center is a cornerstone of Project Lazarus’ mission to provide housing, care, and support to at-risk individuals living with HIV. The restored facility will serve as a safe, welcoming space where residents can access residential programming, participate in social and wellness activities, and engage with community partners offering essential services.
“This is a key moment for Project Lazarus, as this restoration allows us to offer our community members additional opportunities for wellness and communal resources,” Ian Bicko, executive director of Project Lazarus, said.
“After Hurricane Ida and repairs consistent with maintaining historic buildings, Project Lazarus focused on sustainably rebuilding our entire building systems. Now, our organization is happy to announce that our program can expand our transitional housing offerings from our current 11 units to accept 15 additional residents, as well as offer the expansion of comprehensive wellness programs,” Bicko added.
The Center will also provide a dedicated venue for collaborative meetings, strengthening partnerships across Greater New Orleans. Community leaders, city officials, and supporters attended the ceremony, marking the milestone as a positive addition to the community. The ceremony took place from 6-6:30 p.m. at Project Lazarus, located at 2824 Dauphine Street, New Orleans.
“With the Wellness Center open and the provision of additional housing opportunities, we are excited to deepen our services to the community, alongside our fellow community partners,” Danny Akers, board chair for Project Lazarus, said.
About Project Lazarus
Project Lazarus is a New Orleans-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk individuals living with HIV through housing, healthcare, and comprehensive social services. Since its founding in 1985 by Fr. Pawell and Fr. Desrosiers in partnership with the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Project Lazarus has provided transitional and supportive housing, access to critical medical and wellness programs, and opportunities for community engagement. Committed to improving health outcomes and promoting stability, Project Lazarus empowers residents to lead more independent lives to create a healthier Greater New Orleans.
Media Contact:
Lluvia Peveto
Development Manager
Project Lazarus
Cell: (225) 615-6840
lpeveto@projectlazarus.net