If you're in need of a warm meal and some free clothes, make plans to visit Trinity Lutheran Church, 47 W. Main St., Mount Joy, on Saturday, Jan. 28, when the 12th annual Clothing Giveaway and Community Meal will be held from 9 a.m. to noon.

"People will line up outside and get a ticket for the meal and then come into the church," said Savannah Brosky, care coordinator at the church, noting that the event is first-come, first-served. "They can walk throughout the church to different areas set up by clothing type, and they can take as much as they want." Clothing will be available in all sizes, from newborn through adult. "In the past, we've had coats of all sizes and men's and women's suits," Brosky stated. "We will also have accessories and shoes."

The meal will be available to go, with a few small tables set up for people to eat at the church if desired. Details of the meal have not been finalized yet.

As Brosky explained, the idea for the giveaway came from a previous pastor, who wanted to do something to serve the community. "We've kept up the event over the years, and our whole church gathers together to make it happen," she stated. For the past two years, the giveaway wasn't held at the church due to COVID, but the congregation still donated clothing throughout the community, Brosky said.

The church has been collecting donations from the community throughout the month of January, and the youth groups will begin sorting and organizing the items on the Wednesday before the giveaway. "Everyone pitches in from our church," Brosky remarked. "Adults and youth work for the next two days so everything is categorized by gender and size. Volunteers also make the meal."

She emphasized that the giveaway is for anyone in need. "No one is turned away and there are no qualifications to take part in this," she said. "Whoever comes for this we accept with open arms."

Brosky noted that the event helps the church fulfill its mission. "We have a tagline we like to use: 'God's work, our hands,'" she said. "This is a way for us to let the community know that we as a church are here for them."

In the past, the giveaway has attracted more than 300 people, she said, but there is always plenty of food and clothing for everyone. "Even if you can't come till later in the morning, you should still come," she said. "You are welcome anytime."

For more information, contact the church office at 717-653-4168 or search for "Trinity Lutheran Church, Mount Joy, PA" on Facebook.