NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The Archdiocese of New Orleans is taking steps to completely separate from Second Harvest Food Bank, according to a letter released Thursday by Archbishop Gregory Aymond.
In the letter, addressed to clergy and churchgoers, Aymond announced the formation of two committees – one to search for a permanent leader for the food bank and another to explore a full separation from the archdiocese.
The announcement follows a period of controversy over the recent firings of Second Harvest’s former executive director and several board members, which sparked backlash and concerns about the archdiocese’s involvement in the organization’s operations.
Second Harvest, Louisiana’s largest food bank, has long been affiliated with the Archdiocese of New Orleans. However, the organization divested from Catholic Charities in 2011, allowing it to operate with greater independence.
Now, the latest move signals a potential full break from the church, removing any direct oversight by the archdiocese or the archbishop.
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Aymond acknowledged that discussions surrounding the firings have become more contentious, but reassured the public that the food bank remains fully operational.
In response to concerns that donations to Second Harvest could be used to settle clergy sex abuse claims against the church, Aymond reiterated that no money intended for food assistance would be diverted for such purposes.
The leadership shake-up at Second Harvest raised questions about the archdiocese’s influence over the food bank’s decision-making.
His latest letter suggests that the path forward may involve an entirely independent Second Harvest, free from church oversight.
The archdiocese is now awaiting recommendations from the newly formed committees to determine the next steps.
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