The congregation at a local church is getting a jump start on the season of giving by offering a hot lunch and a coat to keep the cold away on Saturday to those in need.

“We just want to help our community,” said Suzanne Simpson, of Gospel Way Baptist Church in Dawsonville.

A free lunch of cornbread and chili will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 20 at the church, at 680 Harmony Church Road.

The church has also collected coats and blankets to give away as needed.

Simpson said the church plans to make the free, hot lunch a monthly event.

“Our goal is to reach out, help the people in our community and spread the word of God,” she said.

For more information or directions, call (678) 936-3400.