Two sisters inspired to do something positive for their community have arranged a holiday meal for the needy at Southampton Rangers tomorrow night.

Crystal Lightbourne Simmons and Colette Lightbourne came up with the idea two weeks ago. They were able to move forward with assistance from area MPs, businesses and community leaders who backed their cause.

The Royal Gazette is profiling their efforts as part of our Dare to Care campaign.

Mrs. Lightbourne Simmons said it was around the end of November when her daughter told her of a classmate whose parents couldn't afford to give her lunch.

"She said her mom wasn't working. I said [to my daughter], 'no problem share your food if you have to or bring extra'."

The conversation started her thinking.

"There are a lot of families out there that don't have jobs, that have to pay a mortgage, rent or whatever and their children need to be fed," said Mrs. Lightbourne Simmons. "Somebody needs to do something. You can't do everything but you can start somewhere."

The 44-year-old turned to her younger sister. Together they decided to put together a holiday meal for Southampton residents families and senior citizens in need.

The Southampton residents first approached Southampton Rangers with the idea. They then called on past and present area MPs for help Zane DeSilva, Marc Bean, Jon Brunson, David Dodwell, Charlie Swan, Reginald Burrows and Stanley Lowe.

The club and community leaders were enthusiastic and helped find sponsors for what is planned to be a takeout dinner with entertainment and minimal seating. The support has been overwhelming.

The Reefs, Henry VIII Restaurant, The Wok Express, Mr. Chicken, Scoops Ice Cream Parlour, Bermuda General Agency and others contributed food items such as turkey, ham, chow mein and pizza sticks.

Crown Landscaping donated 100 gift bags for children filled with colouring books, juice boxes and cookies. Food and additional items were provided by MarketPlace, Whites & Sons, Tools and Equipment and Just Rite.

Mrs. Lightbourne Simmons said: "I think they are feeling for people. You know it's really hard, you hear the stories.

"I have friends who are out of jobs. It is a struggle with part-time jobs just trying to make ends meet. Some people can't even get a job so it is really hard out there."

Both sisters have devoted hours of their time to making the dinner happen in two weeks.

They said they did it for "the love of it; knowing how much people are willing to give, and to see people at the end of the day so grateful to receive".

Added Mrs. Lightbourne Simmons: "I am hoping people come and relax and enjoy the evening. We are trying to give good things to the children and the seniors as well. If we could we hope to continue it."

l The dinner takes place tomorrow at Southampton Rangers on South Shore Road, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Delivery is available for seniors unable to travel. To make arrangements contact Mrs. Lightbourne Simmons on 338-1054.

Are you or someone you know doing something positive to show you care about the community? Share it as part of our Dare to Care campaign. E-mail nadiaroyalgazette.bm or call 278-0157.