Once Was Inc is a veteran-led nonprofit standing in the gap for Louisiana veterans who live more than 50 miles from VA hospitals and military resources. Guided by faith and a commitment to restore dignity, we connect veterans to housing, healthcare, and community support — ensuring that distance never stands between them and the help they deserve.
Each month Once Was Inc honors veterans in Calcasieu and Lafayette Parishes with warm, dignified meals shared in community. These gatherings are more than food—they are moments of reflection, gratitude, and connection. On days of national significance, Meals of Remembrance are held in observance of Military Holidays and serve as living tributes to those who have served.
Held on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, Service Saturday brings together volunteers and supporters to provide veterans and their families with holiday essentials—such as Thanksgiving turkeys, holiday hams, and needed supplies—ensuring no veteran household is forgotten during times of celebration.
Since our founding, Once Was Inc continues to stand in the gap for veterans across Acadiana and beyond. Through meals, mentorship, and community programs, we meet veterans where they are—offering dignity, faith, and support when resources feel out of reach.
Once Was Inc. exists to honor veterans with dignity, connecting them to housing, career opportunities, mentorship, and emotional support so they can thrive in civilian life.
Many Louisiana veterans live far from VA hospitals and resource centers. This creates barriers to healthcare, housing, and community support, leaving too many veterans underserved.
Once Was, Inc. connects veterans to food, housing, and essential resources with dignity and compassion. Our promise is simple: no Louisiana veteran should be left behind because of where they live.
Facilitating safe, stable and affordable housing options for Louisiana veterans in need, including transitional housing and supportive environments where they can thrive.
Offering education in financial literacy, PTSD recovery, and addiction support while exploring how these challenges intersect with law enforcement and community well-being.
Connecting veterans to peer mentors who understand their journey and provide encouragement through challenges.
Providing access to counseling, emotional support, and mental health resources so veterans can find resilience and hope.
Our community impact programs go beyond meals to address the ongoing needs of veterans and their families across Louisiana. From fundraising events and holiday outreach to volunteer opportunities and partnerships, Once Was, Inc. connects neighbors with meaningful ways to honor those who served. These initiatives build stronger communities while ensuring veterans receive dignity, support, and hope year-round.
At Once Was Inc, we believe that honoring veterans means more than providing meals and resources. It takes a community standing together in partnership, advocacy, and service. These opportunities give individuals, churches, and organizations tangible ways to contribute to lasting change for Louisiana veterans.
CEO: Racquel Edmond
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At Once Was Inc we know that veterans need more than one-time events — they need pathways that create dignity, stability, and hope. These three pillars of support highlight how partnerships, faith, and storytelling strengthen Louisiana veterans and the families who stand beside them.
Through partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and civic organizations, Once Was, Inc. expands its reach and provides critical resources for Louisiana veterans. Every donation, sponsorship, or in-kind contribution strengthens our ability to stand in the gap for those who served.
Once Was Inc is strengthened by faithful community supporters who stand with our mission. Bridgette Menard with Ameri Dream Mortgage, volunteers from the Louisiana State Police, and local festival queens faithfully support our events to serve and support veterans. Their consistent presence expands awareness, resources, and encouragement for veterans and families across Louisiana.
Behind every program is the testimony of veterans and families who have found hope through Once Was, Inc. Sharing these stories keeps their voices alive and ensures that no service member is ever forgotten.
Becoming a volunteer with Once Was Inc means becoming part of a mission rooted in dignity and hope. Whether you’re serving meals, lending an ear, or helping at events, your time reminds veterans that they are honored, valued, and never forgotten.
Their sacrifice will never fade — we remain steadfast in remembering and uplifting each one.
From meals to mentorship, we walk beside veterans and families to ensure they’re valued, supported, and never forgotten.
From food drives to holiday outreach, these moments capture how Once Was brings veterans and communities together. Each photo is more than a memory — it’s a reminder that dignity, faith, and support change lives in real ways.
We promise to stand in the gap for veterans who live far from military resources — honoring their service with dignity, building community, and providing the support they need to thrive at home.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit
EIN: 86-1471739
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