Grassroots foundation aims to transform Lafayette's Northside with affordable homes.

Never To Late Foundation has begun building a reconstructed home on Harmony Street, and the Lafayette City‑Parish Council approved donating an adjudicated Short Street lot to the nonprofit to support additional affordable, owner-occupied homes.

Never To Late Foundation, a nonprofit focused on uplifting low-income residents, is beginning a multi-home effort on Lafayette's Northside. The group's first reconstructed home is under construction on Harmony Street. Founder Dominique Mouton emphasizes front porches as a design choice meant to encourage neighborly connection. Earlier this year the Lafayette City‑Parish Council approved donating an adjudicated property on Short Street for a future build. Key details: - The foundation's first reconstructed home is under construction on Harmony Street. - The Lafayette City‑Parish Council approved donating 248 Short Street; the existing structure will be demolished and replaced with a single-family home. - The project aims to create more than 30 owner-occupied homes for low- and moderate-income residents as funding allows. - As a condition of the city's donation, future homeowners must complete financial literacy and home maintenance courses. - Much of the current construction funding is coming from founder Dominique Mouton and partner Jeremiah Batiste, with support from community volunteers. - Construction work involves local residents and offers hands-on experience for younger workers and volunteers. Summary: Organizers say the project is intended to build stability, pride and a stronger sense of belonging for families through homeownership. The first homes are expected to be completed within months. Additional builds will follow in phases as the foundation secures more properties.