On Sunday, Feb. 19, McSeagull's will hold a charity event to benefit area residents and our local food pantry.

People have different reactions to seeing a homeless person outside on a cold winter day. Most will feel at least some degree of sympathy. Some are compelled to hand that person a bill or two. Some, like Suzie Edwards, will go further.

Edwards has a voice. She's an accomplished singer, and when she sees something that doesn't sit well with her, she speaks her mind.

On a recent Saturday in early January, 10-year-old Edwards, a fifth grader at Boothbay Region Elementary School, was on her way to a swim meet in Portland when she saw a man standing on a street corner with no coat on. It was below 20 degrees. She continued to think of the man outside in freezing temperatures while she swam. That night, she told her father, Steve Edwards, she wanted to do something to help people in need of clothing, food, or both.

The two spoke with Jackie Barnicoat and Chris Gleason of McSeagull's in Boothbay Harbor, and a plan was formed. Barnicoat and Gleason offered to host the charity event.

The event, dubbed “Suzie's Fill the Boat with Love,” will feature complimentary appetizers, cookies and hot cocoa; draft beers and drink specials will be available. Live music will be performed by Dave and Chris Gagne, with Suzie, a talented singer, accompanying them at times.

There will be a coloring competition for kids, with $50, $25 and $10 McSeagull's gift cards going to winners.

The event is open to the public. Donations of money, clean clothing and non-perishable foods will be appreciated.

McSeagull’s is located at 14 Wharf Street. Call 633-5900 for more information.