A Fairfield church is bolstering its fundraising efforts by providing the community with a new gathering space and free meals.

The First Church Congregational is offering free meals at the Sanctuary Cafe East with a donation. It's open to anyone who wants to enjoy a hot cup of coffee, a bowl of soup or just some delicious baked goods. The cafe is open Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy free WiFi along with their lunches.

Organizers say it's a great way to draw customers into the church store - a thrift shop that raises money for charity outreach. They say it also provides residents with a warm, inviting space for socializing.

"I think seeing people want to come back, and talking with one another, and meeting new people, I just think that's what we need more of in this world," says Marilyn Lord, co-founder of the Sanctuary Cafe East. "And that's what I'd like to see."

First Church is also running tours of its historic sanctuary and Tiffany windows every Wednesday at 12 p.m. The building is the oldest church in Fairfield.