A local volunteer group is doing its part to make sure every person in Andalusia enjoys a warm and hearty meal this Christmas.

ACORN — which stands for “Assorted Christians and other Religious Nuts” and is unrelated to the social justice organization of the same name — will host a free Christmas dinner for Andalusia residents on Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church. Diners have the options of eating at St. Mary’s, ordering meals “to go” from the church, or getting their meals delivered.

“Anyone in the community can come and get a good meal, and we’ll deliver anywhere in the community as well,” said Frankie Lancaster, a member of the church and an event volunteer. “It’s a community outreach project that several churches get together and contribute to each year, and this year it’s being hosted at St. Mary’s. It’s all about doing as Jesus commanded, ‘whatever you do for the least of my children, so you do for me.’”

Those who wish to have meals delivered must let the church know before Friday, by calling 222-2487 to make a reservation. Lancaster pointed out the meal is available for all residents, regardless of economic status.

“We want to make sure to feed anyone who is alone, or maybe cannot afford a good holiday dinner,” she said. “We usually see a great response to it.”

Lancaster said that there are enough volunteers to work the serving line, but the church can use extra volunteers to help with delivery. She also said citizens are welcome to bake cakes or other desserts for the meal.

“If anyone wants to help, they can just come to the church,” she said. “I’m sure we’ll find something for them to do.”