MASSENA -- The Salvation Army of Massena has opened its new kitchen, enabling the organization to provide more than 300 meals each day to those in need. 

To celebrate the occasion, a ribbon cutting will be held on Wednesday, June 11 at 11 a.m. at the facility, located at 178 Victory Road in Massena. 

"For more than five years, The Salvation Army of Massena has seen a steady increase in families and individuals coming to The Salvation Army for assistance as the cost of living continues to have the biggest impact on those already struggling to put food on the table.

Recognizing this need, The Salvation Army of Massena put into place a multi-year plan to raise $150,000 to build a new commercial-grade kitchen. The new kitchen is now complete and will be ready for service this summer," the Salvation Army said in a release. 

The Salvation Army's previous food pantry provided food to those in need five days per week but with the new kitchen expansion, the organization will be able to serve 300 to 350 meals each day, officials said. 

upport for the project came from community partners including the Arconic Foundation, the Empire State Development Fund, SeaComm Federal Credit Union, Northern New York Community Foundation, Brookfield Renewable Energy, Liberty Utilities, Caldwell Contracting, Stewart's Shops, BJ's Charitable Foundation, a Louisville Hockey Arena fundraiser, private donors, special fundraisers, and more," officials said. 

“We are so grateful for those who have come alongside us to generously support this amazing project,” said Lieutenant Nicholas White of The Salvation Army of Massena. “This new kitchen will help us continue our vital programs and services for years to come.”