The Salvation Army in Barrie served up a hot lunch on Friday, but long before the meal was served, others were chipping in to make it happen.

Margaret McGrath and Gordon Fairweather are part of a group from Whispering Pines Retirement Residence who have been helping prepare food for The Salvation Army for years.

“We chop up all kinds of vegetables. There's lettuce, cucumbers, apples, tomatoes, mushrooms, green peppers,” says McGrath. “And it's not a big job because we all enjoy it and we have a bit of fun and a bit of gossip.”

Fairweather says it’s a good opportunity for him and his colleagues to help those in need.

“It's a good opportunity to help others and the group is as good to get together with and have a bit of fun,” he says.

The kind gesture starts at Joe's No Frills in Barrie, where for years the store has donated food for volunteers at Whispering Pines to cut up and prepare for the mission.

“It keeps the residents active and they enjoy participating in it and donating to society,” says Tony Thompson, a delivery person.

The Salvation Army is grateful for the help.

“The need is great in the City of Barrie and we will serve anywhere from 120 to 180 individuals at each meal,” says Maj. Sandra Foster.

If you’re interested in volunteering for The Salvation Army you can contact the mission at 705-737-3102.