MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Salvation Army hosted an older adult luncheon today for seniors at the Italian Community Center.

More than 600 seniors came from Green Bay, Janesville and Beloit to visit with friends, eat a hearty meal and celebrate the holidays.

“It’s that opportunity to make a new friend just to be a part of the Christmas spirit and to be together in the community… vitally important this time of the year,” said Steve Merritt of the Salvation Army.

Everyone at the luncheon went home with a small gift.