Food and Raiment Day, a long-standing Warren County tradition heralding the holiday season, returns at Central Church of Christ this Saturday, Nov. 9.

Visitors are invited to stock up on clean, gently used clothing and footwear at Central’s benevolence center and enjoy a free hot lunch in the church’s fellowship hall anytime from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“This has been a very popular program since its inception more than 20 years ago,” said Central elder Steve McGregor. “Everything is free and we definitely want people to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Ample parking is available at the church’s lot adjacent to North Spring Street. For the convenience of shut-ins and persons with mobility problems, carry-outs will be available at the food service line.

“We believe our clothing center is reasonably well-stocked with coats, sweaters and men’s and women’s garments appropriate for the oncoming winter weather,” noted Barbara Garretson, one of Central’s benevolence volunteers. “We also have a good selection of shoes and work boots for school children and adults.”

The complimentary lunch features hot vegetable soup, a variety of sandwiches and homemade desserts.

“This is a very casual, come-and-go event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.,” Garretson said. “We just want our visitors to get the clothes and footwear they need for themselves and their family and to enjoy our hospitality for the soup-and-sandwich lunch.”