Work is underway to clean up neighborhoods on the south side of Ville Platte. Neighbors are taking it upon themselves to make it a better and safer place for the children.
"We're trying to make a change. Build up our community and make a difference," Cortez Fontenot said.
He along, with dozens of others plan on cleaning up the entire south side of the city. It's an area, that's no stranger to crime. This summer, a 5 year old boy was shot and injured nearby. They don't want that to define the neighborhood.
"All they know is criminals," Fontenot said. "They only come here to lock us up."
Neighbors say they have had enough and want to bring change.
"We do want and we do care," Fontenot said. " We do want to change our neighborhood.
They're calling on everyone to do their part.
"It makes my heart cry," Gertie Jack, who lives in the neighborhood said. "Enough is enough. If you don't care, you're part of the problem."
The group is accepting donations. They are in need of trash bags, water, gloves, shovels, rakes, weed eater and/or lawn mower. You can call 337-541-2827 if you'd like to make a donation.
