The Broad Street United Methodist Church will begin serving their free monthly sit-down meals at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 21. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

NORWICH — The Broad Street United Methodist Church (BSUMC), located at 74 North Broad Street in Norwich, will be beginning their annual free monthly meals at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 21.

Each month, the church serves free, sit-down meals complete with entree, sides, dessert, and drinks. This month's menu will include pasta with sauce, meatballs, rolls, and ice cream sundaes.

Monthly menus can be found posted to the Broad Street United Methodist Church Facebook page as well as various Facebook community pages.

"The meals provide a wonderful opportunity for people facing food insecurity and it gives them a chance to gather together socially in a warm, welcoming environment," said Organizer Barbara Korver. "It’s been a wonderful way for people to gather, [and it's] food for anyone in the community. It doesn’t have to be food insecure, it can be anyone."

She said volunteers from both the church and community usually prepare around 200 meals, and the dinner lasts until 6 p.m. or until they run out of food.

In addition to a hot meal, the BUSMC also provides free books for kids, and individuals can take coats, hats, mittens, socks, and boots that have been donated.

Korver said in the summer months, the church only offers take-out meals. Additionally, they hand out free PB&J bagged lunches every Tuesday, which is organized by Deb Root. Included in the bagged lunches are two sandwiches, chips, fruit, cookies, and water bottles.

In the months of July and August of this year, the BSUMC served 779 lunch bags, or 1,558 sandwiches. Sandwiches were also donated to the cooling and warming center.

Providing free meals every month would not be possible without the support of many local churches and individuals, who provide financial donations and volunteering. Korver said they often receive help from the local Lutheran Church, Catholic Church, the United Church of Christ, and even individuals not affiliated with the churches.

"It’s been wonderful for the people that come and help to serve or get together. We’ve had people form new friendships and it’s just a wonderful way for people to feel that they're doing something positive for their community, and friendships have been formed," said Korver. "People look forward to serving so much so that they sign up and they want to do it again the next month."

Those who would like to inquire about volunteering opportunities or donate to the free monthly meals can contact the BSUMC 607-334-2895. Checks can be mailed to the Broad Street United Methodist Church, 27 North Broad Street, Norwich, NY 13815. Donations can also be dropped off at the church.

For more information on the Broad Street United Methodist Church and their free monthly meals, visit the Broad Street United Methodist Church Facebook page.