Turlock senior citizens will soon have a new place to get a hot meal while visiting with friends, as the county’s lunch program is expanding to the Turlock Senior Center.

Starting Sept. 12, seniors 60 years and older can get a free lunch Monday through Wednesday at the Turlock Senior Center, 1191 Cahill St. A special grand opening event will be held on Sept. 12. Reservations are encouraged for the grand opening event by calling 209-480-7381.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for socialization and meals will be served at 11:30 a.m. The first week of meals include a turkey burger with crispy corn salad, carrot and raisin salad and a mango on Sept. 12; Italian chicken salad, tomato and cucumber salad, spinach salad, pineapple and a roll on Sept. 13; and split pea soup with ham, carrot coins, cauliflower, a biscuit and seasonal fruit on Sept. 14.

“It is estimated that there are more than 10,000 seniors (60 or older) in Turlock, so we are excited to be a part of offering more services and socialization opportunities to the city,” said Jill Erickson of the Stanislaus County Department of Aging & Veterans Services.

This is a social luncheon for seniors 60 or older; there are no other eligibility requirements than being a senior. A spouse of a senior attending the lunch is also eligible for the lunch regardless of their age.

There is no charge for seniors but there is a donation box available for those that are able to contribute. The suggested donation is $3 a meal. Guests under 60 are also welcome but must pay full cost of the meals which is $6. Reservations are required one day in advance for meals. To make a reservation, call 209-480-4508.

It is the second senior meals site now in Turlock. United Samaritans Foundation provides the senior lunch Monday through Friday at The Salvation Army Senior Activity Room, located at 893 Lander Ave. For more information on that meal site call 209-480-5170.