After a few hours in the pews at local places of worship, there's nothing like being able to have a meal with friends and family.

Most Sundays during the year, Daddy Joe's Beachouse BBQ & Grill is not one of the choices for dinner because they are closed to give employees a much-deserved day of rest, along with the opportunities to attend church and fellowship with loved ones.

As with almost anything there is an exception. For the past five years, Meals on Wheels has been just that, being given the keys to the Floyd Baker Boulevard restaurant to assist in an annual fundraiser in its mission of feeding the growing number of senior citizens residing in Cherokee County.

This year will be no different, as the local nonprofit group finishes plans for the 2010 version of the event, which is to be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 21.

"Daddy Joe's has again been gracious to us," said Terry Dennis, director of Meals on Wheels of Cherokee County. "It's a big part of our 'March for Meals,' our monthly drive to make sure no senior citizens go hungry, locally or anywhere."

The fundraiser comes at a good time as the organization does its part to make people aware of the issue of hunger among senior citizens, particularly in the Palmetto State.

"A lot of people do not know South Carolina ranks second nationally in terms of hunger among senior citizens," Dennis said.

According to Dennis, 1 in 9 senior citizens statewide are going hungry. With many "baby boomers" nearing or reaching their 65th birthday, the problem is becoming more common nationwide.

"With our economy and limited income, it's an issue that we have to take seriously," Dennis said.

Last year's fundraiser did help put a dent into the problem of senior hunger on a local scale, raising $5,000 through ticket sales as well as products sold at a bake sale during the event.

"It's a fundraiser, but all of us have fun," Dennis said. "People actually get to see us at work; in most cases they're probably seeing us scrambling around, doing our part as waiters, greeters, cleaning tables, or whatever else is needed.

"For the most part, it's an opportunity for us to provide an opportunity for neighbors to fellowship among each other and support an organization doing its part to serve fellow members of the community. We all have to do our part to make a difference."

A buffet meal consisting of Daddy Joe's barbecue, calabash chicken, slaw, barbecue slaw, baked beans and hushpuppies will be available for those wishing to dine at the local eatery or wanting to quickly grab their meal and leave. Tickets are $10 for adults, while a child's plate of chicken and fries is $5.

To purchase tickets, visit the Meals on Wheels office at 403 W. Montgomery St. or call (864) 487- 2730.

For more information about Cherokee County Meals On Wheels, log on to www.cherokeecountymow.org.