Honoring Service. Strengthening Community. Sharing a Meal in Gratitude.
Meals of Remembrance is one of the most meaningful outreach programs hosted by Once Was Inc — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring service, supporting families, and empowering veterans throughout Southwest Louisiana.
This ongoing program invites veterans, families, and community members to gather each month for a free meal of fellowship and remembrance. Each event is built around a significant day of military or national recognition — such as National Law Enforcement Day, Medal of Honor Day, VE Day, or PTSD Awareness Day — serving as a moment to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate the men and women who have served our country.
Through these gatherings, Once Was, Inc. provides more than a meal — they provide community, connection, and compassion. Local volunteers, veteran groups, and sponsors unite to make each event a place where stories are shared, friendships are built, and service is honored in lasting ways.
These meals help reduce isolation among veterans while fostering a network of support and understanding within the community. Whether it’s honoring those lost, celebrating those who served, or inspiring the next generation to carry the torch, Meals of Remembrance keeps the mission of gratitude alive.
Participating Parishes
These meals are held across Calcasieu Parish and Lafayette Parish, and are open to all who wish to show support, share stories, and stand beside those who’ve given so much.
September 2025, Once Was Inc proudly welcomed Race Trac as our official drink sponsor for Meals of Remembrance.
Upcoming Meals of Remembrance Dates
Once Was Inc counts it a sacred privilege to honor our veterans and their families. We believe God remembers every act of courage, every sacrifice made, and every quiet burden carried long after the uniform is folded away. Our Meals of Remembrance are more than gatherings — they are moments of ministry, compassion, and gratitude. With humbled hearts, we serve those who once stood for us, trusting that the same God who carried them through service now continues to cover them with grace, strength, and peace.
Pearl Harbor
Meals of Remembrance
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2025 11:00-12:30
Carencro Police Dept.
5025 N. University Ave, Carencro, LA 70520
In observance of Pearl Harbor Day, Once Was Inc and the Carencro Police Department will host a Meal of Remembrance to honor our nation’s heroes. Veterans and their spouses are invited to join us for a heartfelt meal of gratitude and reflection.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2025 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Westlake Managan Center 1000 McKinley St,
Westlake, LA 70669
2026 Calcasieu Parish
(Location to be announced)
January
National Law Enforcement Day
February
National Salute to Veteran Patients
March
Medal of Honor Day (L’Auberge Lake Charles Casino Resort – Sycamore Room)
April
Gold Star Spouses Day
Freedom Hall
1000 National Dr. Westlake, LA 70669
May
VE Day
June
PTSD Awareness Day (Kinder, LA)
2026 Lafayette Parish
(Location to be announced)
January
National Law Enforcement Day / Kings Day
February
National Freedom Day
March
National Vietnam War Veterans Day
April
National Former POW Recognition Day
May
Armed Forces Week
June
D-Day
