A game of bingo turned into a new venture for three New Iberia non-profits who now operate a bingo hall and video bingo casino in The Village shopping center.

Although video poker is not allowed in Iberia Parish, the non-profits are allowed to operate bingo for fundraising purposes.

Bayouside Bingo’s live bingo hall opened Thursday, with the video casino serving its first patrons on Monday. Monica Fontenette of Blessing New Iberia said the idea came to her while at another bingo hall and she decided the group could do a better job.

If the crowd there on Monday is any indication, they are off to a great start. Every seat was filled as the caller read out the numbers, the players quickly marking their cards with big, fat felt-tipped markers.

Fontenette took a few minutes between rounds Monday afternoon to talk about the new venture.

So how did the idea for this come about?

It’s a joint operation between the Teche Homebuilders, Blessing New Iberia and Van’s Kiddie Care. We were all playing at another bingo hall and we decided to get together to accomplish what we wanted to accomplish together.

How were you raising money for your efforts before this?

We did the basic fundraising things. We held the Harvest Fest to collect donations to feed those in need. We held a Christmas Festival to help provide for children in need in the community.

What needs do these organizations serve?

Van’s Kiddie Care provides meals and meal reimbursement for children. Teche Builders Association helps families who need help with homebuilding and housing repairs. Blessing New Iberia gives aid to the elderly and senior citizens.

Are there any events coming up?

Yes, we will hold our ribbon cutting on April 13 with some of our city leaders, refreshments and prizes. Then on April 20, we will have an Easter children’s bingo with special prizes, drinks and snacks, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Why a bingo hall?

It gives the elderly community a sense of community. It gives them a place to go to socialize. They can stay and chat, or watch television. We don’t force anyone to leave. It’s just a little place for them to visit. Plus we are creating nine or 10 jobs. After New Iberia being down for so long, it’s great to see it coming back, and we want to help.