Luzerne County Community College Culinary Institute Prepares Lunches for Local Veterans

Chef Instructor and Co-Coordinator Kim McLendon and members of Luzerne County Community College's Culinary Institute prepared and packaged dozens of boxed lunches today for veterans being served at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center.*

The boxed lunches, handcrafted by LCCC culinary students and staff, include a delicious assortment of fresh sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts. "We love doing this twice a year," said McLendon. "Today's lunches include olive salad, orzo pasta salad, watermelon salad, homemade hummus with carrots, and a variety of sweet treats like brownie bites and cheesecake parfaits."

This initiative is part of the Culinary Institute's ongoing commitment to giving back to the community and supporting veterans.

"I was fortunate to be there the last time we delivered lunches," McLendon recalled. "The veterans were incredibly appreciative?some even emotional. It's something different from their usual routine, and that gesture of care really resonates with them."

McLendon emphasized the emotional impact and importance of honoring veterans: "It's very fulfilling. We want to acknowledge their service to our country, and that includes our veteran students here at the college. This is just one way we can show our gratitude."

LCCC culinary students regularly contribute their time and talents to a range of community efforts, from supporting Junior Achievement to assisting with the College's annual Scholarship Dinner.

"This work teaches more than culinary skills?it teaches compassion, responsibility, and the importance of service," McLendon said.