It’s all for love.

That’s what the leaders of Matthew 25 Ministry of First United Methodist Church had in mind when they launched a program to feed the homeless and the hungry.

“It represents the love of Christ,” ministry leader Lorre Bowen said.

This Saturday, and every second Saturday of the month, First United Methodist Church and Matthew 25 Ministry will hold a free fellowship meal at the church from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Church members Bowen and Shirley Stone run Matthew 25 Ministry. Their idea for the ministry is based on a Bible verse that reads, “For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. For I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink.”

When the event began in 2014, the ministry’s initial goal was to provide a free meal and a “takeaway” lunch bag for Sunday. About 25 people attended that first month. After about three years, they now offer a hygiene table that provides personal care items, according to Bowen. This Saturday, they are planning to host 150 people.

The meals always include a protein, vegetables, fruits and bread, she said. Each month is assigned to a different volunteer “cook team” organized by Stone. The Rotary Club, according to Stone, will provide Saturday’s meal of hot dogs, chili and coleslaw.

“The list of organizations that have reached out to help and volunteer goes on and on,” Stone said.

The event is open to everybody, not just the homeless. Bowen said she’s seen a lot of grandmothers who are raising grandchildren — and they are grateful because the meal helps with their weekly budget.

The free meal is the draw, but it doesn’t stop there. The ministry also partners with hospitals and provides nursing students to take blood pressure and check blood sugar levels each month, Bowen said. There are magazines, devotional literature, live music and a prayer table at the event.

Bowen described a time when a young man in bad shape who had been living in the woods behind McDonalds came to their Saturday event. The church’s associate pastor began working with him, and from there, the man was able to get back on his feet.

“It takes the edge off for some people and for others, like that man, it can be life changing,” Bowen said.