LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Lake Charles and Golden Corral teamed up today to provide free meals to veterans and also raise funds for the DAV.

While Veterans Day honors those who have served our country, it is also an opportunity to educate veterans about the resources available to them.

“We see over 70 to 100 veterans per month. We try to attract as many of them as possible and educate them on their benefits,” said Jean Mitchel, DAV Chapter 17 commander.

While those in attendance enjoyed their meal, a brief presentation was held to share resources available to disabled veterans.

“There are a lot of people who need help. There are a lot of guys who have been through wars, who have been through things that need help because they have been through terrible things,” said veteran Wilford Trahan. “It has affected their minds, their lifestyle, and I think we should do everything we can for them.”

Ernest Mitchel, commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) District 5, says the primary goal of the DAV and VFW is to care for veterans.

“There are a lot of veterans walking around here, hungry and homeless. When we see them, we try to collect them from the bush remains so that they can have a better and more comfortable lifestyle,” Mitchel said.

Guests were able to enjoy the buffet from 4 p.m. until closing.

“For us, Golden Corral is just doing a little something to give back. It’s a small thing, but here in Lake Charles over the last two years we’ve raised $10,000 to help the local of the day,” said Bill Linson, Golden Corral Lake Charles franchise owner.

“It’s just a really great feeling. It’s a really awesome day and we’re so grateful to all of our veterans,” said Golden Corral Lake Charles General Manager Danell Knippers.

If you would like to donate to the Lake Charles Chapter of Disabled American Veteransthey are located at 5516 Highway 90 East in Lake Charles. You can also contact them at 337-602-1317.

Copyright 2024 KPLC. All rights reserved.