Agency Information
For a government-wide compendium of federal programs, projects, services, and activities, consult the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFThe U.S. Department of Agriculture provides numerous services including loans to farmers, businesses and industry, financing of rural electric associations, crop insurance, maintenance of the U.S. forests and many other programs.
Contact:
Department of Agriculture
14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 447-2791
The ATF, a division of the Department of Treasury, is the federal agency responsible for the enforcement of federal laws pertaining to the production, use, and distribution of alcohol, tobacco, and firearm products.
Contact:
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
401 Edwards Street
8th Floor
Baton Rouge, LA 70825
(504) 676-3301
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
201 Baronne Street
Room 204
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 589-2314
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
401 Edwards Street
8th Floor
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 676-3301
Amtrak provides nationwide rail service for passengers and freight. Louisiana depots are located in New Orleans and Hammond.
Contact:
AMTRAK
1001 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113
(504) 528-1631
AMTRAK
60 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20002
(202) 906-3000
1-800-USA-RAIL
ARMY
The Army has two major posts located in Louisiana; Fort Polk and Jackson Barracks. The public may obtain information on military personnel, civilian employment and contracts from the appropriate post.
Fort Polk is located in Leesville and is home to the Army's 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized).
Jackson Barracks is located in New Orleans. Several army units are located there as well as the National Guard State Area Command.
Contact:
5th Infantry Division (Mechanized)
U.S. Army
Office of Public Affairs
Fort Polk, LA 71459
(318) 535-2911
Jackson Barracks
U.S. Army
Office of Public Affairs
New Orleans, LA 70146
(504) 271-6262
ARTS, NATIONAL ENDOWMENT (NEA)
The NEA is an independent agency of the federal government. It promotes the continued vitality and excellence of the arts throughout the United States. It awards grants to individual American artists, arts groups, and other non-profit organizations through a variety of programs and funding categories.
Contact:
National Endowment for the Arts
Nancy Hanks Center
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, Dc 20506
(202) 682-5400
Shreveport Regional Arts Council
800 Snow Street
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 673-7727 Ext. 50
AVIATION
The Federal Aviation Administration regulates airport security, maintenance inspection and pilot licensing.
Contact:
Federal Aviation Administration
Southern Region
P.O. Box 20636
Atlanta, GA 30320
(404) 763-7333
Federal Aviation Administration
800 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20591
(202) 366-4000
COAST GUARD
The Coast Guard maintains a system of rescue vessels, aircraft and communications facilities to carry out its function of saving life and property and enforces applicable federal laws at sea and on the navigable waters of the United States.
Contact:
United States Coast Guard
Atlantic Area (8th District)
501 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70130-3396
(504) 589-6198
United States Coast Guard
2100 Second Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20593
(202) 267-6971
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS (CDBG)
The CDBG program provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled communities to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization, economic development and improved community facilities and services. The program is administered by the Louisiana Division of Administration. Also, the Louisiana CDBG provides assistance to units of general local government in non-entitlement areas for the development of viable communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income. Non-entitlement areas are municipalities with a population of less than 50,000 and parishes with an unincorporated population of less than 200,000.
Contact:
Louisiana Division of Administration
P.O. Box 94095
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9095
(504) 342-7000
COMMUNITY RESOURCE GROUP, INC. (CRG)
The CRG is part of the National Rural Community Assistance Program and it functions as the Southern Rural Community Assistance Program which helps small communities develop and maintain water and wastewater systems. It also helps small communities promote rural interests and awareness of their special needs. CRG provides services at no cost to rural communities.
Contact:
Community Resource Group, Inc.
Southern RCAP
2100 W. Prien Lake Rd., Suite 11
Lake Charles, LA 70605
(318) 477-2449
COMMUNITY SERVICE, OFFICE (OCS)
The OCS, an office within the Administration for Children and Families, Department of Health and Human Services, administers the Community Services Block Grant Program which makes funds available to States for a wide range of services and assistance to alleviate the causes of poverty in communities. States, in turn, make grants or contracts to provide services and activities to assist the poor and the elderly in local communities. Funding is made available on a competitive basis once a year in the areas of economic development (job creation), rural housing, rural community facilities, assistance to migrants and seasonal farmworkers, community food and nutrition, demonstration partnerships, family violence prevention information campaigns, homeless families support services, and job opportunities for low-income individuals.
Contact:
Office of Community Service
Administration for Children and Families
Department of Health and Human Services
370 L'Enfant Promenade, SW
Washington, D.C. 20447
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Consumer inquiries or complaints in areas covered by federal consumer protection laws may be forwarded to the Office of Consumer Litigation within the Department of Justice. The office also serves as a liaison with other federal agencies and with local law enforcement agencies for referral of consumer matters outside the jurisdiction of the Justice Department.
Contact:
Office of Consumer Litigation
Department of Justice
Constitution Avenue and 10th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20530
(202) 514-2000
TDD number for hearing impaired (202) 514-4019
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION
Although formal registration of copyrights is not required to establish ownership of literary, musical, or artistic material (when distributed publicly, the work need only bear a statement including the term "copyright", the owner's name, and date of publication), copyrights may be registered with the U.S. Copyright Office within the Library of Congress. Registration is only required prior to claiming a copyright infringement.
Contact:
U.S. Copyright Office
Library of Congress
101 Independence Avenue, SE
Washington, D.C. 20540
(202) 707-5000
CORPS OF ENGINEERS
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for the management of our civil works programs; including the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of rivers, harbors and waterways. The Corps is also responsible for issuing dredge and fill permits. Louisiana falls within the jurisdiction of two districts.
Contact:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
New Orleans District
P.O. Box 60267
New Orleans, LA 70160-0267
(504) 862-2201
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Vicksburg District
P.O. Box 60
Vicksburg, MS 39181-0060
(601) 631-5052
CULTURE, RECREATION AND TOURISM, DEPARTMENT OF
The Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism seeks to provide easy access to the use and enjoyment of Louisiana's culture, heritage, and natural scenic beauty. The Office of Tourism gathers visitor information from organizations, governmental agencies, and private industries of all types. The Office of State Parks plans, designs, constructs, operates, and maintains parks, commemorative and state preservation areas in the state of Louisiana.
Contact:
Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
P.O. Box 94361
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9361
(504) 342-8115
Office of State Parks
Box 44426
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-8111
Office of Tourism
P.O. Box 94291
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-8100
Rural Development and Tourism
P.O. Box 44243
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-7009
CUSTOMS
The responsibilities of the U.S. Customs Service include collection of excise taxes and fines on imported/exported goods, interdiction and seizure of contraband including narcotics and illegal drugs, and border enforcement.
Contact:
U.S. Customs Service
423 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 589-6353
U.S. Customs Service
Main Headquarters
1301 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20229
(202) 566-8195
DEFENSE, DEPARTMENT OF (DOD)
The DOD is responsible for providing military forces to protect the security of our country. The major elements of these forces are the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Public inquiries on matters concerning military personnel, civilian employment and defense contracts are welcomed.
Contact:
Department of Defense
Office of Public Affairs
Room 2E800, The Pentagon
Washington, D.C. 20301-1400
(703) 697-9312
Department of Defense
Small and Disadvantaged
Business Utilization
Room 4E830, The Pentagon
Washington, D.C. 20301-2000
(703) 697-8360
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY (DLA)
The DLA is responsible for buying those commodities used in common by the Military Services and the contracting responsibility is carried out at Defense Supply Centers. It also carries out an aggressive program
to aid, counsel, assist and protect small business firms and to facilitate their interest and participation in the procurement program.
Contact:
Louisiana Productivity Center/USL
Procurement Technical Assistance Network Center
241 East Lewis Street
Lafayette, LA 70504-4172
(318) 231-6422
Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission
The Bid Center
1221 Elmwood Park Blvd., Suite 405
Harahan, LA 70123
(504) 736-6550
Northwest Louisiana Government Procurement Center
Greater Shreveport Economic Development
400 Edwards Street
Shreveport, LA 71120-0074
(318) 677-2530
DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Emergency management operations for disasters include three phases: preparedness, response, and recovery. In the preparedness phase, state and local governments administer emergency preparedness programs with ongoing activities to help ensure that they are ready to respond to disasters. The Louisiana Department of Emergency Preparedness is responsible for all initial damage assessment prior to federal involvement.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) partially funds disaster assistance and emergency preparedness programs. Victims whose immediate needs are not met by voluntary relief organizations, such as the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, can register with FEMA.
Farmers Home Administration (FmHA) emergency loans are made to eligible farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture operators for losses arising from natural disasters. To be eligible for an emergency loan, farmers must carry crop insurance.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) lends money to victims of floods, riots or other catastrophes to repair or replace disaster damaged property. Direct loans are made to small businesses and agricultural cooperatives which are unable to obtain credit elsewhere and which have substantial economic injury resulting from natural disasters.
Contact:
Office of Emergency Preparedness
P. O. Box 44217
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-5470
Farmers Home Administration
3727 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
(318) 473-7840
Federal Emergency Management Agency
500 C Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20472
(202) 646-4600
Farmers Home Administration
U.S. Department of Agriculture
14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 447-4323
Small Business Administration
Disaster Area 3 Office
4400 Amon Carter Boulevard
Suite 102
Ft. Worth, TX 76155
(817) 267-1888
DRUG ABUSE
Federal initiatives in the area of substance abuse are coordinated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse within the Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services. The institute collaborates with states and local organizations to develop and expand substance abuse programs. A separate Office of Substance Abuse Prevention operates a grant program for community-based prevention and treatment projects. Drug abuse initiatives at the state level are coordinated by the Division of Prevention and Recovery from Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Department of Health and Hospitals.
Contact:
National Institute on Drug Abuse
Department of Health and Human Services
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
(301) 443-6487
Office of Substance Abuse Prevention
Department of Health and Human Services
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
(301) 443-5266
Division of Prevention and Recovery
From Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals
P.O. Box 3776
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 922-0728
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Info.
P. O. Box 345
Rockville, MD 20847-2345
(301) 468-2600
1-800-729-6686
DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION (DEA)
The DEA enforces narcotic laws with a focus on the investigation of major interstate narcotic violations.
Contact:
Drug Enforcement Administration
4560 North Boulevard
Suite 118
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
(504) 389-0254
Drug Enforcement Administration
1661 Canal Street
Suite 2200
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 589-3894
Drug Enforcement Administration
401 Edwards Street
Suite 510
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 676-4080
ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT, OFFICE OF
The Office of Economic Adjustment provides assistance to communities affected by defense programs such as military base closures; help communities analyze and resolve specific problems caused by significant defense program changes; help replace lost jobs.
Contact:
Office of Economic Adjustment
U.S. Department of Defense
400 Army Navy Drive
Suite 200
Arlington, VA 22202
(703) 697-9155
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION (EDA)
The EDA aids in generating new jobs, protecting existing jobs, and stimulating commercial and industrial growth in economically distressed areas. Assistance is available in rural and urban areas experiencing high unemployment, low income levels, or sudden economic distress. The basic programs include public works grants, loan guarantees to industrial and commercial firms, technical assistance and planning grants.
Contact:
Economic Development Administration
1661 Canal Street
Suite 2200
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 589-3894
Department of Economic Development
P. O. Box 94185
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-2000
Economic Development Administration
14th and Constitution Avenue, NW
Room 7804
Washington, D.C. 20230
(202) 377-5113
ECONOMIC RESEARCH SERVICE (ERS)
ERS provides analysis, economic, and social information for measuring and improving the performance of agriculture and the quality of life in rural America.
Contact:
Economic Research Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
1301 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20005-4788
(202) 219-0530
EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF
The Department of Education promotes excellence in education at all levels, ensures equal educational opportunities, and provides funding assistance to state and local education agencies with minimal federal intrusion. The Department administers federal education programs including elementary and secondary education, vocational and adult education, vocational rehabilitation, education for the handicapped, postsecondary education (including student aid), research and state block grants.
Contact:
Department of Education
P. O. Box 94064
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-3602
Department of Education
Region VI
1200 Main Tower Building
Room 2125
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-3626
Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202
(202) 732-3026
ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF (DOE)
The DOE coordinates and administers federal energy programs including long-term, high-risk energy related research; marketing of federal power; energy conservation; nuclear weapons programs; energy regulatory programs; and a central energy data collection and analysis program.
Contact:
Department of Energy
1000 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20585
(202) 586-5000
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA)
The EPA monitors and controls all forms of pollution in coordination and cooperation with local and state governments.
Contact:
Environmental Protection Agency
401 M Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20460
(202) 382-2090
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION (EEOC)
The EEOC ensures equality of opportunity by enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination through investigation, mediation, litigation, coordination, education and technical assistance.
Contact:
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
701 Loyola Avenue
Room 600
New Orleans, LA 70113-9936
(504) 589-2329
1-800-USA-EEOC
TDD number for hearing impaired (202) 634-7057
FAMILY ASSISTANCE
Welfare benefits are administered at the state level for qualified individuals. Public inquiries regarding welfare and family assistance programs are welcome.
Contact:
Louisiana Department of Social Services
Office of Eligibility
755 Riverside North
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(504) 342-0286
FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION (FmHA)
FmHA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provides financial and management assistance through various types of loans for individuals in rural areas. Information on loan applications is available at all FmHA parish offices.
Contact:
Farmers Home Administration
3727 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
(318) 473-7920
Farmers Home Administration
U.S. Department of Agriculture
14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 447-4323
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (FBI)
The FBI has investigative responsibility for most federal crimes. In addition to law enforcement services, many FBI offices participate in training and community educational programs.
Contact:
New Orleans Division
1250 Poydras Street
Suite 2200
New Orleans, LA 70113-1829
(504) 522-4671
Alexandria Division
Room 303
300 Jackson Street
Alexandria, LA 71309
(318) 473-7551
Baton Rouge Division
4949 Essen Lane
Jacobs Plaza, 11th Floor
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Lafayette Division
Suite 280
100 Asma Blvd.
Lafayette, LA 70598
(318) 433-6353
Lake Charles Division
Room 510
1135 Lakeshore Drive
Lake Charles, LA 70602
(318) 387-0773
Monroe Division
Room 313
Federal Building
201 Jackson St.
Monroe, LA 71201
Shreveport Division
401 Edwards
Shreveport, LA 71102
(318) 221-8439
(318) 221-8430
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC)
The FCC is responsible for licensing and regulating radio, television, wire, satellite and cable communications. The FCC maintains information on license applications as well as reports required by licensees. Much of this information is available for public inspection. Broadcast stations are also required to make certain information available for public review.
Contact:
Federal Communications Commission
Office of Public Affairs
Consumer Assistance & Small Business Division
1919 M Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20554
(202) 632-7000
FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION (FDIC)
The FDIC provides insurance coverage for bank deposits and conducts periodic examinations of insured state-chartered banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System.
Contact:
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
1910 Pacific Avenue
Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 220-3342
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
550 17th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20429
(202) 393-8400
FEDERAL LABOR RELATIONS AUTHORITY (FLRA)
The FLRA resolves disputes between Federal agencies and unions representing Federal employees. It handles unfair labor practice complaints, representation petitions, negotiability appeals and exceptions to arbitration awards, all within the realm of Federal employment.
Contact:
Federal Labor Relations Authority
607 14th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20424
(202) 482-6560
FEDERAL REGISTER
The Federal Register provides a uniform system for making available to the public regulations and legal notices issued by federal agencies. Updated information on federal programs appears daily. Subscriptions and copies are available to the public.
Contact:
Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, D.C. 20402
(202) 783-3238
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)
The FTC promotes competition in commerce by preventing trade restraints, price-fixing and other illegal activities. The commission also protects the public from false or deceptive advertising.
Contact:
Federal Trade Commission
Regional Office
100 North Central Causeway
Suite 500
Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 767-5501
Federal Trade Commission
Pennsylvania Avenue at Sixth Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20580
(202) 326-2222
Federal assistance may be available to flood victims through loans and grants. Individuals participating in the National Flood Insurance Program should contact the office below for claim and premium information. Emergency loans are made to eligible businesses, farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture operators for losses arising from natural disasters (see Disaster Assistance).
Contact:
Federal Insurance Administration
500 C Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20472
(202) 646-2774
The Food and Nutrition Service, part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administers programs to make food assistance available to qualified individuals. The programs are operated in cooperation with state and local governments and include food stamps, special nutrition and supplemental food programs, and nutrition education and training.
Contact:
Food and Nutrition Service
Department of Agriculture
14th Street and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 447-2791
The Food Stamp program provides food purchasing ability in the form of a coupon allotment to improve the diets of citizens who are in need of assistance. Parish offices are listed in your local telephone directory.
Contact:
Office of Family Support
P.O. Box 94065
Baton Rouge, LA
(504) 342-2342
The Forest Service has the federal responsibility for national leadership in forestry. It's mission is to provide a continuing flow of natural resource goods and services to help meet the needs of the nation.
Contact:
Forest Service
Department of Agriculture
201 14th Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 205-1760
Department of Agriculture and Forestry
P.O. Box 631
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 922-1234
Federal agencies may provide funding assistance for individual and community programs. Those seeking grants should explore all potential funding sources before writing proposals. The following sources may be of assistance:
The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance, a government publication available in public libraries, describes and list all federal government programs administered by 51 agencies which provide funds or nonfinancial assistance to individuals and state and local governments. The total cost is $50.
Superintendent of Documents
P. O. Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
The Foundation Center is an independent national service organization which provides information on private foundations and grants. To check on locations and additional information call 1-800-424-9836.
Contact:
Beauregard Parish Library
205 S. Washington Avenue
DeRidder, LA 70634
(318) 463-6217
East Baton Rouge Parish Library
Centroplex Branch
120 St. Louis Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(504) 389-4960
New Orleans Public Library
Business and Science Division
219 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70140
(504) 596-2580
Shreve Memorial Library
424 Texas Street
Shreveport, LA 71120-1523
(318) 226-5894
The GPO prints, binds, and distributes Congressional documents and other federal publications. There is a charge for any document ordered.
Contact:
Government Printing Office
North Capitol and H Streets, NW
Washington, D.C. 20401
(202) 783-3238
Head Start provides comprehensive developmental services for low-income pre-school children. It also provides educational, social, medical, dental, nutritional and mental health services to children and their families. It is administered by the Administration for Children, Youth and Families in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Contact:
Office of Human Development Services
Department of Health and Human Services
1200 Main Tower Building
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-2976
Department of Health and Human Services
Office of Human Development Services
Administration for Children, Youth and Families
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20201
(202) 245-7246
The Department of Health and Human Services focuses on the simple precept of people serving people while formulating policies comprising the national social agenda.
Contact:
Department of Health and Hospitals
P.O. Box 629
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 342-9500
Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20201
(202) 690-7000
LA Office of Rural Health
Division of Policy and Program Development
P.O. Box 1349
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 342-8761
The HCFA makes grants available to states to strengthen their capability of providing Medicate beneficiaries information, counseling, and assistance on adequate and appropriate health insurance coverage. Some areas of special focus include assistance in rural areas, oversees Medicare and Medicaid (see separate listings) and related federal medical care quality control staffs.
Contact:
Louisiana Department of Insurance
P.O. Box 94214
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-5428
Health Care Financing Administration
Dallas Regional Office
Department of Health and Human Services
1200 Main Tower Building, Room 2000
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-6401
Health Care Financing Administration
Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20201
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's cultural resources worthy of preservation. It is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historical and archeological resources. The agency is administered by the National Park Service under the Secretary of the Interior.
Contact:
The Division of Historic Preservation
Office of Cultural Development
P.O. Box 44247
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-4247
(504) 342-8160
National Park Service
Department of Interior
1849 C Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20240
(202) 208-4747
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) was established as part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help families become homeowners and to facilitate the construction and rehabilitation of rental units. Public inquiries concerning HUD's mortgage insurance and rental assistance programs (Section 8) are welcomed.
Contact:
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Fisk Building
1661 Canal Street
P.O. Box 70288
New Orleans, LA 70112
(504) 589-7200
Information on rural housing loans for low and moderate income families can be obtained from the Farmers Home Administration.
Contact:
Farmers Home Administration
Rural Housing Programs
3727 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
(318) 473-7970
The NEH is an independent grant-making agency of the federal government to support research, education, and public programs in the humanities. It is intended to compliment and assist private and local efforts and to serve as a catalyst to increase non federal support for projects of high quality.
Contact:
National Endowment for the Humanities
1100 Pennsylvania, NW
Washington, D.C. 20506
(202) 606-8438
LA Endowment for the Humanities
Suite 3110
1001 Howard Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113
(504) 523-4352
The IRS administers and enforces the internal revenue laws and related statutes. During tax season, IRS forms may be obtained at your local post office or library. The IRS also offers a variety of programs which are available to all citizens both rural and urban. The programs and services include: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, Community Outreach Tax Education, Small Business Tax Education Program, Understanding Taxes Program, Practitioner Education, Student Tax Clinics, Bank, Post Office and Library Program, and Problem Resolution Program.
Contact:
District Director
Internal Revenue Service
U.S. Department of Treasury
600 S. Maestri Place
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 589-3001
1-800-829-1040
The ITA offers a number of programs and services designed to facilitate the exports of manufactured products and business services for U.S. firms.
Contact:
International Trade Administration
New Orleans District Office
Hale Boggs Federal Building
501 Magazine Street, Room 1043
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is Louisiana's only national park. The Park interprets the natural and historical resources of the Mississippi Delta region. It has many units including the Barataria unit which features hiking, canoeing, picnicking and fishing opportunities; the French Quarter visitors center; the Chalmette Battlefield and the Islenos Interpretive Center. Units to interpret the Acadian culture are currently being developed in Eunice, Lafayette and Thibodaux.
Contact:
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
423 Canal Street
Room 210
New Orleans, LA 70130-2341
(504) 589-3882
The goal of the JTPA is to train or retrain and place eligible individuals in permanent employment in the private sector.
Contact:
Louisiana Department of Labor
P.O. Box 94094
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-3111
Department of Labor
Employment and Training Administration
Region VI
525 Griffin Square Building
Suite 300
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-8263
The Department of Justice represents the federal government in court, investigates and enforces federal laws, administers the federal prison and parole system, advises the President and the executive branch on legal issues and assists state and local law enforcement organizations.
Contact:
United States Attorney
Eastern District
Hale Boggs Federal Building
501 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 589-2921
United States Attorney
Middle District
339 Florida Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70801
(504) 389-0443
United States Attorney
Western District
401 Edwards Street
Shreveport, LA 71101-6133
(318) 226-5277
Department of Justice
Constitution and 10th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20530
(202) 724-7694
The Kisatchie National Forest is the only federal forest in Louisiana. Located in northwest Louisiana, it provides excellent recreational opportunities including camping, picnicking, hiking, swimming, fishing and boating.
Contact:
Supervisor's Office
Kisatchie National Forest
2500 Shreveport Highway
Pineville, LA 71360
(318) 473-7160
The Department of Labor enforces laws that protect the safety, health, job, and pension rights of workers. It also assists in job training and placement, promotes free collective bargaining, guides the nation's unemployment insurance system, and establishes federal prevailing wage rates.
Contact:
Department of Labor
P. O. Box 94094
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-3011
Department of Labor
Region VI, 525 Griffin Square Bldg.
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-6807
Department of Labor
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20210
(202) 523-8165
The LPFA is a non-profit public trust authority and public corporation established to promote, encourage and further the accomplishment of all activities which are or may become of benefit to the State and its people. The LPFA is involved in the financing and promotion of everything from infrastructure development to educational facilities, health care services, cultural and recreational facilities, and industrial development.
Contact:
Louisiana Public Facilities Authority
855 United Plaza Blvd.
Suite 100
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
(504) 929-8560
The Marine Corps has three major units in Louisiana; the 4th Marine Air Wing, the 4th Marine Division and Headquarters, and the 8th Marine Corps District. All are located at the New Orleans Naval Support Activity Station. The public may obtain information on military personnel, civilian employment and contracts from the station.
Contact:
New Orleans Naval Support Activity
Office of Public Affairs
New Orleans, LA 70142
(504) 948-5011
The Medicaid program provides federal funds to states for payment of medical services to financially needy individuals. Parish offices are listed in your local telephone directory.
Contact:
Bureau of Health Services Financing
P.O. Box 91030
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 342-7945
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for persons over age 65 and certain disabled individuals. Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) is automatically available to Social Security beneficiaries. Individuals who are eligible for Medicare Part A may elect to purchase Medicare Part B (physician assistance). Individuals who are not automatically eligible for Medicare Part A may buy into the system.
Contact:
Health Care Financing Administration
Dallas Regional Office
Department of Health and Human Services
1200 Main Tower Building
Room 2000
Dallas, TX 75202
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, was created to foster the establishment and growth of businesses owned by minorities and women. It attempts to begin formal research and policy analysis of rural conditions pertaining to minority enterprise in response to the Rural Development Initiative. MBDA also promotes and coordinates the efforts of other federal agencies in assisting or providing market opportunities and provides funding for a network of Minority Business Development Centers (MBDC). The centers provide management and technical assistance to minority entrepreneurs to help them start, expand and manage their businesses.
Contact:
Minority Business Development Agency
2036 Woodale Boulevard
Suite D
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
(504) 924-0186
Minority Business Development Agency
1001 Lake Forest Boulevard
Suite 408
New Orleans, LA 70127
(504) 241-8664
Minority Business Development Agency
Dallas Regional Office
1100 Commerce
Room 7B23
Dallas, TX 75242
(214) 767-8001
Minority Business Development Administration
Department of Commerce
Main Commerce Building
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW
Room 5073
Washington, D.C. 20230
(202) 482-3007
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children serves as a national clearinghouse for information on missing children. The center maintains a toll-free telephone hotline (1-800-THE LOST). Other programs dealing with missing or abused children and runaways are operated by the Administration on Children, Youth and Families within the Department of Health and Human Services.
Contact:
Administration on Children, Youth and Families
Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20201
(202) 245-0347
The Institute of Museum Services supports all types of museums. It offers technical assistance grants to small, emerging, minority and rural museums.
Contact:
Institute Museum Services
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20506
(202) 606-8539
Office of State Museums
751 Chartres
New Orleans, LA 70116
(504) 568-6967
Louisiana Association of Museums
P. O. Box 3494
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 343-4341
NASA conducts research and development on flight within and outside the earth's atmosphere and develops, constructs, tests, and operates aeronautical and space vehicles. Employment inquiries should be addressed to the Human Services Management Division.
Contact:
NASA
Headquarters Information Center
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20546
(202) 453-1000
NASA
Contracts and Small Business Utilization
Federal Building 10-B
Washington, D.C. 20546
(202) 453-2088
NASA
Human Services Management Division
Federal Building 10-B
Washington, D.C. 20546
(202) 453-8478
NIH conducts and supports biomedical research into causes, prevention, and cure of diseases; supports research training and the development of research resources, and disseminates biomedical information to the public. NIH consists of nine separate institutes, each of which addresses a defined area of concern. For information about the individual institutes, call (301) 496-4000. Information on research grants is available through the Office of Grants Inquiries.
Contact:
National Institutes of Health
Office of Grants Inquiries
Division of Research Grants
Westwood Building
Room 449
Bethesda, MD 20892
(301) 496-7441
There are a number of national wildlife refuges throughout Louisiana such as Bogue Chitto, Bayou Sauvage, Tensas, Grand Cote, Lake Ophelia, Cameron Prairie, Atchafalaya, etc. These areas offer recreational opportunities including hiking, canoeing, fishing and wildlife observation. The Tensas National Wildlife Refuge, located in northeast Louisiana, has a visitor's center which contains exhibits on wetlands and endangered species issues and can provide information on other refuges located in Louisiana.
Contact:
Tensas National Wildlife Refuge
Route 2, Box 295
Tallulah, LA 71282
(318) 574-2664
There are two major naval stations located in Louisiana; New Orleans Naval Air Station and New Orleans Naval Support Activity. The public may obtain information on military personnel, civilian employment and contracts from the appropriate station.
The New Orleans Naval Air Station is located in Belle Chasse and is a joint-service facility, with Naval, Air Force and Marine Corps Reserve units. The Louisiana Air National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Customs Service are also located there.
The New Orleans Naval Support Activity is home to Naval Reserve Force Headquarters, Naval Air Reserve Force, 4th Marine Air Wing, and 8th Marine District Headquarters.
Contact:
New Orleans Naval Air Station
Office of Public Affairs
Belle Chasse, LA 70143
(504) 393-3253
New Orleans Naval Support Activity
Office of Public Affairs
New Orleans, LA 70142
(504) 948-5011
The Federal Correctional Institute Oakdale I and the Federal Detention Center Oakdale II are responsible for housing illegal aliens awaiting deportation. They are jointly operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the Immigration and Naturalization Service. Public inquiries on inmates, employment and contracts are welcomed.
Contact:
Federal Correctional Institute Oakdale I
P.O. Box 5050
Oakdale, LA 71463
(318) 335-4070
Federal Detention Center Oakdale II
P.O. Box 5060
Oakdale, LA 71463
(318) 335-4466
OSHA is responsible for developing safety and health standards for U.S. laborers and conducts inspections of work places to ensure compliance with related federal regulations.
Contact:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Department of Labor
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20210
(202) 523-8017
OPM is charged with the responsibility of recruiting and examining potential employees for a large number of federal jobs.
Contact:
Office of Personnel Management
1515 Poydras, Suite 600
New Orleans, LA 70112 .
(504) 589-2786
Office of Personnel Management
1900 E Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20415
(202) 606-1800
The Patent and Trademark Office within the Department of Commerce is responsible for examining and approving design, plant, and utility patents. The office also maintains an extensive library on U.S. and foreign patents and can provide information on qualified patent agents and attorneys.
Contact:
Office of Public Affairs
Patent and Trademark Office
Washington, D.C. 20231
(703) 305-7676
Rural and urban communities throughout America are challenged by multifaceted problems in education, public health, economic development, and other areas. Using partnerships established through the Peace Corps Fellows Program which is a graduate-degree scholarship program concurrent with remunerated employment in under-served communities.
Contact:
Peace Corps Fellows Program
1990 K Street, NW, Suite 9500
Washington, D.C. 20526
(202) 606-3990
The United States Postal Service provides mail processing and delivery services to individuals and businesses. Under the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970, Members of Congress are no longer responsible for postal appointments.
Contact:
United States Postal Service
701 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113-9998
(504) 589-1022
United States Postal Service
Management Sectional Center
Shreveport, LA 71102-9998
(318) 677-2200
United States Postal Service
Management Sectional Center
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9998
(504) 381-0393
United States Postal Service
475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW
Washington, D.C. 20260-0010
(202) 268-2000
The Public Health Service promotes the protection and advancement of the nation's physical and mental health. It supports the delivery of health services in rural areas and the availability and accessibility of quality care for undeserved populations.
Contact:
Public Health Service
Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20201
(202) 619-1296
The Railroad Retirement Board administers comprehensive retirement-survivor and unemployment-sickness benefits programs for the nation's railroad workers and their families.
Contact:
Railroad Retirement Board
101 Marietta Street
Suite 2306
Atlanta, GA 30323
(404) 331-2841
Railroad Retirement Board
2000 L Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
(202) 653-9540
The RTC develops overall strategies and policies for management and dispositions of assets for depository institutions which have failed since January, 1989.
Contact:
Resolution Trust Corporation
3500 Maple Avenue
Dallas, TX 75219
1-800-782-4674
Resolution Trust Corporation
801 17th Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20434
(202) 416-6900
The Resource Conservation and Development provides advisory services, counseling, and technical assistance to local communities for implementing rural development programs and long-range resource conservation programs.
Contact:
Resource Conservation and Development
Soil Conservation Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
14th & Independence Avenue, S.W.
P. O. Box 2890
Washington, D.C. 20013
(202) 690-4575
The RWCP program is administered by the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS), U.S. Department of Agriculture which improves water quality in the most cost-effective manner possible in keeping with the provisions of adequate supplies of food, fiber, and a quality environment.
Contact:
Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service
Department of Agriculture
P. O. 2415
Washington, D.C. 20013
(202) 720-6221
The RDA provides assistance to rural communities in becoming economically competitive and improving the standard of living of the resident. It intends to achieve this through technical assistance and credit programs for rural community facilities, water and waste systems, and business and industry.
Contact:
Rural Development Administration
3737 Government Street
Alexandria, LA 71302
(318) 473-7920
Governor's Office of Rural Development
P.O. Box 94004
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-4481
Rural Service Administration
U.S. Department of Agriculture
14th and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 720-3631
The REA of the Department of Agriculture assists rural electric and telephone utilities in obtaining financing through insured loans, agency guarantees of loans made by others, and approval of security arrangements that permit agency borrowers to obtain financing from other lenders without a guarantee.
Contact:
Rural Electrification Administration
P. O. Box 979
Ball, LA 71405
Rural Electrification Administration
P. O. Box 46075
Baton Rouge, LA 70895
(504) 293-3587
Rural Electrification Administration
Department of Agriculture
Fourteenth and Independence Streets, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250
(202) 382-1255
RIC provides information and referral services to local, State, and Federal Government officials; community organizations; health professionals and organizations; rural electric and telephone cooperatives; libraries; businesses; and rural citizens working to maintain the vitality of America's rural areas. The Center combines the technical, subject-matter expertise of Extension's nationwide educational network with the information specialists and resources of the world's foremost agricultural library.
Contact:
Rural Information Center
National Agricultural Library
Room 304
Beltsville, MD 20705
(301) 504-5547
1-800-633-7701
The RSI program has been developed by the National Science Foundation to address the barriers to adequate science, mathematics and technology education in rural, economically disadvantaged regions of the nation. It is designed to fund projects from coalitions in regions defined by similarities in social, cultural and economic circumstances rather than by governmental boundaries. Louisiana is involved in the RSI program.
Contact:
Deputy Commissioner for Academic Affairs and Research
Louisiana Board of Regents
150 3rd Street
Suite 129
Baton Rouge, LA 70801
(504) 342-4253
The Parish Councils on Aging operate senior centers throughout Louisiana. These centers provide a number of services to seniors, including recreation, home and congregate meals, job and volunteer placement, ombudsman assistance, transportation, etc. Parish offices are listed in your local telephone directory.
Contact:
Louisiana Association of Councils on Aging, Inc.
P.O. Box 1248
Natchitoches, LA 71457
(800) 521-3784
(318) 352-1556
The SBA serves individuals and small businesses with financial assistance, management, counseling and training. All lending activities are handled by field offices. Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are located at most Louisiana universities and provide free counseling and business planning assistance.
Contact:
Small Business Administration
Fisk Building
365 Canal Street
Suite 3100
New Orleans, LA 70130 .
(504) 589-6685
Small Business Administration
401 Edwards Street
Suite 916
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 676-3196
Small Business Administration
409 Third Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20416
1-800-827-5722
LA Small Business Development Center
ADM-2-57 NLU
Monroe, LA 71209
(318) 342-5506
Social Security Administration operations are decentralized to provide appropriate services at the state level. Louisiana contains a network of district offices to assist with claims filed for retirement, survivors, health or disability insurance benefits, black lung benefits or supplemental security income. To contact an area office, consult the governmental listing of your telephone directory under Department of Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration.
Contact:
Senator Bennett Johnston
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
(202) 224-5824
Social Security Administration
Department of Health and Human Services
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
(301) 965-7700
SCS is the federal agency within the Department of Agriculture responsible for implementing soil and water conservation programs in cooperation with landowners and governmental agencies.
Contact:
Soil Conservation Service
Department of Agriculture
P.O. Box 2890
Washington, D.C. 20013
(202) 447-4543
The Department of State advises the President in formulating and executing foreign policy. It also provides information on missing persons, emergencies, deaths of Americans abroad, and passports.
Contact:
Department of State
P. O. Box 94125
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 922-1000
Department of State
2201 C Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20520
(202) 647-4000
Student financial assistance includes Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Work Study, Cooperative Education, Insured Loans to Students in Health Professions Schools, and the Guaranteed Student Loan Program. Additional information can be obtained at university financial aid offices.
Contact:
Department of Education
Region VI
1200 Main Tower
Dallas, TX 75202
(214) 767-3626
1-800-4-FED-AID
Department of Education
Postsecondary Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202
(202) 708-5366
Federal surplus property is made available for purchase by local governmental agencies through the State of Louisiana Federal Property Assistance Agency.
Contact:
Federal Property Assistance Agency
P.O. Box 94095
Capital Station
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9095
(504) 342-7860
The Trade Adjustment Assistance program provides training, job search and relocation allowances, reemployment services and extended unemployment benefits to individuals who have lost their jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced due to increased imports.
Contact:
Louisiana Department of Employment and Training
P.O. Box 94094
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-3016
The U.S. Department of Transportation establishes the nation's overall transportation policy. Under its umbrella there are nine administrations whose responsibilities include highway planning, development, and construction; urban mass transit; railroads; aviation; and the safety of ports, highways, and oil and gas pipelines.
Contact:
Department of Transportation and Development
P. O. Box 94245
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 379-1100
Department of Transportation
400 Seventh Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20590
(202) 366-4000
The U.S. Department of Treasury serves four principal functions: manufacturing coins and currency, formulating and recommending economic policy, serving as financial agent or bank to the U.S. Government and enforcing currency laws. Major branches of the department include the Secret Service, Customs, Internal Revenue Service, Office of Thrift Supervision, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
Contact:
Department of the Treasury
P. O. Box 631
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
(504) 922-1234
Department of Treasury
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20220
(202) 566-2000
The Department of Veterans Affairs administers benefit programs for veterans and members of their families. Benefits include compensation payments for disabilities or death related to military service, pensions, home loan guarantees, and medical care programs incorporating nursing homes, clinics, and medical centers.
Contact:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Regional Office
701 Loyola Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113
(504) 561-0121
1-800-462-9510
Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20420
(202) 233-2300
The OVAE coordinates major rural education programs. The rural technical assistance centers provide assistance, consultation, and training to state and local education agencies to improve the quality of rural education programs.
Contact:
Department of Public Education
P. O. Box 94064
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
(504) 342-3602
Office of Vocational and Adult Education
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Switzer Building, Room 4315
Washington, D.C. 20202
The White House serves as the President's primary office and residence. The staff of the President maintains communications with the Congress, the heads of the executive agencies, the press, and the general public.
Contact:
The President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
(202) 456-1414
The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries' mission is to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Contact:
Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
P.O. Box 98000
Baton Rouge, LA 70896
(504) 766-2346
Fish and Wildlife Service
Southeast Regional Office
Richard B. Russell Federal Building
75 Spring Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 331-0833
Fish and Wildlife Service
Department of the Interior
1849 C Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20240
(202) 208-5634
The Office of Workers' Compensation Programs is responsible for administering the basic federal workers' compensation laws: the Federal Employees' Compensation Act, which provides workers' compensation for federal employees and the Longshoremen's and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, which provides benefits to employees in the private sector.
Contact:
Department of Labor
Workers' Compensation Programs
701 Loyola Street
New Orleans, LA 70113
(504) 589-2671
Department of Labor
Office of Worker's Compensation
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20210
(202) 523-7503