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The Heart of the Canteen: A Tradition of Service, Food, and Community
The tradition of the canteen lunch began during World War II with the North Platte Canteen in Nebraska. Located at the Union Pacific Railroad Station, it was run entirely by volunteers who greeted traveling service members with home-cooked meals and friendly conversation. This act of everyday kindness became a powerful symbol of unity, gratitude, and community.
Clear Path for Veterans New England carries on this tradition by offering weekly Canteen Lunches—gatherings designed to bring Veterans, military families, and the broader community together through food, connection, and shared purpose.
Leominster Canteen Lunch
100 West St, Leominster, MA 01453
Tuesdays at 11:30 AM
No registration required
Join us every Tuesday at our Leominster campus for a freshly prepared, plated lunch served at 11:30 AM. This weekly event provides a welcoming environment where Veterans and community members can come together, share a meal, and engage in meaningful conversation. No sign-up is necessary—just stop in and join us.
Devens Canteen Lunch
84 Antietam St, Devens, MA
Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Registration required weekly
Our Thursday Canteen Lunch at Devens offers two seating options:
- Session 1: 11:00 AM
- Session 2: 12:30 PM
Each meal is prepared with care and served in a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of service and community. To ensure we can accommodate everyone, we ask that you register each week in advance. Both Canteen Lunches reflect Clear Path’s mission of connection, care, and support for Veterans and their families. Whether you come for the meal or the company, you’ll find a place at the table.
Veterans Canteen Lunch in Leominster
Tuesdays at 11:30 AM
100 West St, Leominster, MA 01453
Join us for a warm meal and great company at our Veterans Lunch in Leominster—no registration required! It’s a simple, welcoming way to enjoy a Canteen Lunch for Veterans, meet fellow Veterans, and learn more about the programs and support available through Clear Path for Veterans New England.
Whether you’re looking for connection, information, or just a good meal, we look forward to seeing you there.
Canteen Lunch for Veterans – Devens, MA
Thursdays | Two Seatings | Registration & ID Required
Devens Empowerment Center
84 Antietam Street, Devens, MA 01434
Join us for our weekly Veterans Canteen Lunch at the Devens Empowerment Center, a welcoming space to enjoy a hot meal, connect with fellow Veterans, and engage with Clear Path for Veterans New England programs.
Thursday Seatings
- Early Seating: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Late Seating: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Pre-registration and a valid military or Veteran ID are required.