HANNAWA FALLS -- Helping Hands of Potsdam is now serving lunch Monday through Thursday at noon at its Hannawa Falls location at 5868 Highway 56, at the corner of Church Street.

“We have spent the last year renovating the kitchen to meet commercial standards and Board of Health regulations,” said Tom Chappell, director of Helping Hands.

The ADA-accessible establishment is called “Cindy’s Friendly Kitchen” in honor of the late Cindy Talcott, who was a founder and driving force behind Helping Hands.

Lunch is prepared by kitchen supervisor Florence Wright with help from community volunteers. While donations are accepted, meals are free of charge and open to everyone.

“The new program is consistent with the mission of Helping Hands and is in many ways an extension of our food pantry,” said Chappell.

“One of the greatest unmet needs in St. Lawrence County is social isolation,” Chappell said. “Cindy’s Friendly Kitchen provides nutritious meals as well as hospitality, fun and fellowship to anyone who comes through our doors.”

Helping Hands of Potsdam provides compassionate assistance for those in emergency situations, including help with food, heat, utilities and furniture. The nonprofit agency also provides financial assistance with medical, dental and prescription costs as well as assistance with car repairs and donated used cars to working families through the Car Share Program.

For more information, contact Helping Hands at 268-0633.