Those who need a free, hot meal or a way to connect with social services in Jefferson County now have a place to go for help.
The James II Project and Salvation Army of Jefferson County have partnered to serve free lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, starting June 13. The meals will be served at the Salvation Army’s worship and community center, 3740 Telegraph Road, in Arnold.
Karin Kostich, The James II Project executive director, said representatives from social service agencies, like the Salvation Army’s social service director, will be on hand to direct people to services they might need.
“People think giving a meal is something that is simple and doesn’t mean much, but when Jesus sat down and had a meal, that is when he often gave some of his best lessons,” Kostich said. “He would listen to people, make them feel like they were loved and gave them a space to feel comfortable. I was like that is what we need to do for people who are either unhoused or underprivileged. We need to give them a space where they can come, have a meal, and sit down and talk with someone.
“It also gives them the opportunity to meet with agencies in Jefferson County so they can get help if they need anything.”
Kostich said meals will be provided to anyone who comes during the one-hour weekly lunch time.
“The Salvation Army in St. Charles does this, and there are some people who come to have a meal just because they are lonely,” she said. “We are aiming for that. We want to help people and provide friendship and kindness.”
Larry Hostetler, director of the Jefferson County Salvation Army, said he expects the meal program will become popular.
“I expect it to grow as people learn there are not the kind of requirements sometimes imposed,” he said. “We are seeing an increased number of seniors coming for our pantry and food distributions. My hope is some of those who might otherwise eat lunch alone will come and join us to enjoy the company of other people and some good food.”
Kostich said the social service agencies at the meals will vary, but she said lunch will be served every Tuesday, even on holidays.
“I plan to hold one on the Fourth of July (which is on a Tuesday this year),” she said. “If we need to add more days when we serve lunch, we will do that too.”
For more information about the Salvation Army of Jefferson County, go to centralusa.salvationarmy.org, and to learn more about The James II Project or to volunteer to help serve lunches, go to thejamesiiproject.com.