The first Project Community Connect event to combat poverty will take place Thursday in Albert Lea.

The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at First Lutheran Church, 301 W. Clark St. in Albert Lea.

The goal of the event is “to reduce poverty and end homelessness by partnering with local service providers, businesses, citizens and faith-based organizations to bring multiple resources to one central location,” according to a flier for the event. “Persons struggling financially are invited to access resources for themselves and their families.”

A free lunch will be offered for participants, as well as haircuts, child care, groceries, clothes and other items.

This is the first such event in Freeborn County and will take place in collaboration with Freeborn County’s homeless response team, United Way, First Lutheran Church, Semcac and the organization Lift One Lift All.

Organizers hope to engage the greater community “in understanding and reducing poverty by creating awareness and volunteer opportunities for this one-day event,” according to the flier.

Linda Lares of Semcac said the event is “very much needed,” describing it as a “very welcoming environment” for people who need services. The Department of Health, veterans services, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and other agencies will be on hand.

She welcomed people who know someone who needs services to attend the event to alert them services are available.

Lares plans on the event taking place annually in January.