Alocal long-serving festive tradition will help more people than ever this year amid financial pressures caused by the rising cost of living.

The Community Christmas Day Lunch will be held at the Mount Gambier City Hall on Christmas Day from 11.45am.

Community Christmas Day Lunch volunteer Kevin Douglas said while the luncheon catered for 170 people last year, they are budgeting for 200 meals this Christmas.

“We are just allowing for the economy, allowing for people’s needs, some people are getting in pretty dire straits,” he said.

“It seems to be the common thread that people are finding it tougher and tougher and each year that I have been doing it the numbers have been going up and that’s about 10 years.

“It is great that we can cater, great that we can look after and people can come along, but it’s disappointing that our economy has got to the stage where some people are really struggling.

“We do not make judgement, it’s for anybody.”

There will be a free three-course meal by chef Cari Merrett, background music and a gift bag comprised of everyday essentials.

Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin OAM and Reverend John Deer will both share a few words at the event.

From December 1, there will be collection points at Bendigo Bank and the Mount Gambier Golf Club for community member to donate essential items and toiletries for gift bags including shower gel, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes and shampoo and conditioner.

Transport will be provided in the way of a bus donated by Grant High School and driven by local identity Peter Collins and taxis by Vears Taxi Service, one of which will be wheelchair accessible.

Mr Douglas will be accepting bookings for the Community Christmas Day Lunch on 0418 840 947 from tomorrow.