Nick Verleni is pictured Tuesday morning accepting two slices of pizza from Salvation Army volunteer Ray Wolfe. The pizza giveaway was part of Little Caesars' "Love Kitchen" initiative to provide meals to those in need. P-J photo by Eric Tichy

More than 220 people were expected to be served free pizza as part of Little Caesars’ “Love Kitchen” program to provide meals to those in need.

On Tuesday, a semi dubbed the “big-rig pizza kitchen on wheels” rolled into the parking lot of the Salvation Army in Jamestown. A volunteer helped serve slices — one with pepperoni and one with cheese — to local residents.

In a news release, Little Caesars said its “Love Kitchen” has fed more than three million people in all 50 states and in Canada.

“The Love Kitchen was created to provide quality meals for people who need them,” said Pierre Bayeh, Little Caesars franchisee. “As a member of the area business community, it’s important for us to support people when they need it and help make the community stronger. We’re excited to support this program with food and staff to provide a meal for people who otherwise may not get one.”

Crystal Friss of the local Salvation Army said the roaming pizza kitchen was last in Jamestown in April.

“I think it’s great that they are able to come here and show their support for the community,” Friss said.

Also present Tuesday were representatives promoting SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education). Also known as “Eat Smart New York,” the program is coordinated by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Administration and is administered by a network of providers, including Cornell Cooperative Extension.

The goal is to educate those receiving assistance on healthy eating choices through materials and sponsored events.