about

connections culinary services’ mission is to connect lives through nutritious food and education.

Formerly known as Breaking Bread Kitchen, Connections Culinary Services has always had a heart behind their work. Whether it’s contributing towards backpack giveaways, turkey dinners at Thanksgiving, or food for local nonprofit organizations, everyone knows Connections compassionately supports our community.

This compassion was rooted from Lee’s mother, who died of cancer in 2016. She selflessly gave back to the Greater Springfield community, where she profoundly influenced Lee by always helping people with what little she had. Lee chose to continue her work by building a scholarship fund for local youth engaged in servant leadership, volunteer work, and entrepreneurship.

Before starting Breaking Bread Kitchen, Lee served as a director for various agencies that support youth and adults with intellectual disabilities for nearly ten years. His passion and love for serving others drove him to bridge the gap between food, people, and fellowship.

Lee began seeing food as a way to simultaneously support individuals, human services, and communities. Lee wants the people in his community to feel seen and be fed - helping alleviate some of the overwhelm and stress they get from being overworked and frequently under budget.

How does Connections Culinary Services live out its desire to serve and educate in everything it does?

Getting selected as a preferred vendor for the Holyoke school district's after-school enrichment programs educating through cooking classes.
Serving corporate and community organizations with office parties, luncheons, and meetings, Connections Culinary Services never fails to teach and educate in everything they do.
Staff training to help individuals provide wellness plans and help agencies build strong teams around food and nutrition by supporting the staff from the ground up.
Personal Chef Services for in-home, weekly meal preparation to bring people around the table so families can slow down and enjoy one another while also learning about the food they are eating.

Lee built Connections Culinary Services intentionally - so that humanity and compassion are always at the foundation and remain a part of the everyday culture.

Words from the community:

TESTIMONIALS

Lee has been an invaluable part of our Connections Enrichment program for the last two years. Not only are the students taught about how to prepare nutritious and healthful foods, but the hands-on activities reinforce teamwork, respect, and friendship building – vital life lessons for all of us.

harry brandt

The services went far beyond expectations for our special event. As the event ended during a heavy thunderstorm downpour, the staff assisted our team to break down equipment and bring supplies inside. Their help really mattered during such an important event.

pastor jose martinez

Lee has become an important part of our organization’s Holiday festivities and employee appreciation program. Having catered meals throughout the pandemic took a large burden off our employees and management staff.