Normally “no-strings attached” is a misnomer.

Volunteers for Trinity United Methodist Church’s free dinner program say it’s exactly what it sounds like.

On Thursday, April 29, the church hosts a new, free dinner event for anyone, on a first-come, first-served basis.

“People are surprised there aren’t strings attached,” said coordinator Sue Christensen.

“We won’t be giving a sales pitch to join the church or anything like that.” 

The only possible catch, she says, is that volunteers want people to call between
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, April 26-28, to reserve a spot and make sure there is enough food available.

Only 50 seats are available.

The Rev. Bill Gordon affirms there aren’t any personal conditions for attending.

“It’s just a way of reaching out, like Jesus would, to fill whatever needs they might have,” he said.

“We hope, of course, this would reach out to those who feel stretched at the end of the month. We’re not going to check their wallets and checkbooks.

“Just come and enjoy.”

Christensen said the idea grew out of church members wanting to do more general community service.

“A lot of people say that there is a definite need for this,” she said.

“We know this is a time for economic stress for people.”

Dinner will start with a prayer but there will be no service to follow. Live music will be played throughout.

Space is available for children to do homework, with helpers available. Board games and puzzles are on hand, too.

The dinner is 100-percent financed and prepared by church members, with four monthly meals planned so far.

Christensen said she hopes the event grows to 100 attendees in the near future.

She encourages people to come meet new people or because their budgets are tight and they can use the free meal.