THE Red Cliffs community can now socialise and connect over a free meal as part of a new Salvation Army Sunraysia weekly initiative.

Around 50 members of the community attended the Salvation Army's first community meal and drop in event on Wednesday.

Residents were served up a barbeque with salad, and there were also activities.

Major Debbie Serojales said the aim of the weekly event was to provide a location for the community to socialise and connect.

"We really want to just provide a space for members of the community to just come and meet new people," she said.

"There are games for kids, there is a place for people if they just want to relax and read the newspaper, but also then to share over a meal together."

Major Serojales said the event was made possible thanks to funds from the Red Shield Appeal and money made from the Red Cliffs Salvation Army Thrift Shop.

She said it was important the community knew that their support was helping others in their own community.

Major Serojales said a wide range of community members utilised the first event on Wednesday.

"It was great to have some families come in but also some seasonal workers from Vanuatu who took up the opportunity to come,” she said “We just loved being able to share with them.

"After a busy day of working they were able to come in relax and have a meal which was great. It was very busy but a fun night."

Major Serojales said she was thanked volunteers that helped. Anyone wanting to volunteer could call 50231647.

"We have some wonderful volunteers that assist us through the Salvation Army but also the Red Cliffs Church of Christ have a team that come and help us on a roster basis and through the Red Cliffs Community Resource Centre, some people from there pop along sometimes too," she said.

"We are thankful for their support to be able to help us with it."

The event runs from 4.30pm to 6pm with food being served after 5pm.

All members of the community are invited to attend.

The event is held at 16 Heath Street, Red Cliffs.