The Viking Village market is back with fresh produce, clothing and free lunch courtesy of the restaurant Lola’s Mexican Cuisine, which was handed out to students in the E-131 building quad.
Local vendors provided the market with fresh vegetables and food, while Lola’s Mexican Cuisine provided 50 free meals on a first-come first-serve basis for students.
The event is not just a one-time thing; it will also be open on Mar. 27, Apr. 24 and May 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“I think it’s really cool that we have this resource, not only the food but also… a free laundry thing for students. Sometimes, people from Verizon have resources for students, which are either free hotspots or free internet,” said student worker Karolina Yanez.
To get access to the market, students just need to sign in with their student number and tell the workers what items they will be taking.
“We have to take advantage of this opportunity. They’re here for us, so we have to make sure it’s getting used. Especially with the rising cost of groceries…this helps so much,” said LBCC student Sidney Cramer.
The market was busy with students chatting with the workers and catching up. The workers wanted to ensure the market was a comfortable space where students felt welcomed.
“Sometimes, it can get pretty hectic, but it’s nice seeing the people happy with the resources given to them, and it’s worth it because I like working with my coworkers, and I like helping people,” said Yanez.
Next to the produce was the Viking closet, a section of the market dedicated to clothing, shoes and accessories.
Students were limited to two of each item so that everyone got a chance to get clothes.
The clothing is accumulated through donations and is accepted Monday through Thursday if a person calls beforehand.
This event is a great opportunity for students who may not have the resources to buy clothes, this takes off the pressure of spending money on new clothes or comfortable shoes.
The Viking Vault, an on-campus food pantry, was also open next to the market for students to come in and get more free food.
Outreach specialists were also present at the event to offer students helpful resources and find more ways to support them.