Students across Louisiana are coming together to build stronger connections and foster a sense of belonging through participation in National No One Eats Alone Day.
At Bricolage Academy in New Orleans, along with schools statewide, students joined a national movement focused on reducing social isolation and encouraging peer-to-peer connection. The initiative helps students get to know one another and create a more inclusive and supportive school environment.
Social isolation and loneliness can have serious impacts on both mental and physical health. Programs like No One Eats Alone are designed to address these challenges early by helping students build relationships, confidence, and a sense of community.
“This is our ninth year bringing the No One Eats Alone program to youth in Louisiana,” said Jamie Schlottman, CEO and Plan President of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We are committed to addressing student health and are always inspired by the positive interactions we see among students.”
Participating schools receive resources designed to make it easy to bring these conversations into the classroom. Materials include lesson plans, student leadership guides, and activities that encourage students to connect with someone new.
One featured activity invites students to participate in a “Hearts and Hands” project, where they share personal interests and discover common ground with classmates. These activities help spark conversations and build meaningful connections among students.
“By encouraging interpersonal connections and empowering students with the skills to build a welcoming school environment, we can help create safer and more supportive communities,” said Nicole Hockley, co-founder and CEO of Sandy Hook Promise.
The program is part of a broader effort to support social and emotional learning in schools and ensure that students feel seen, supported, and included. Resources are available at no cost and are offered in both English and Spanish, helping schools reach a wide range of students and families.
“We’ve supported this initiative for years because we know that social isolation significantly impacts a child’s well-being,” said Keith Williamson, President of the Centene Foundation. “Helping students build meaningful connections creates a positive ripple effect across entire school communities.”
Through partnerships and school-based initiatives like this, efforts across Louisiana continue to focus on supporting student well-being, strengthening relationships, and creating environments where every child feels they belong.