KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A simple conversation after church helped spark a Christmas Eve act of kindness that is now feeding neighbors and warming hearts in downtown Keene.

The first-ever Hot Soup, Warm Hearts event is taking place today from noon to 3 p.m. at Railroad Square, offering free homemade soup, bread and treats to anyone who stops by. The idea came from Eric Draper of Winchester, who said he was struck by how often public attention focuses on celebrities while people struggle to survive in plain sight.

“People are worried about famous people, and no one is paying attention to folks who are dying and starving on the street,” Draper said. “Instead of complaining about it, I wanted to do something — to bring awareness, give away free soup and spread some joy.”

With help from family members and about 20 volunteers, Draper turned that idea into a full community gathering. Volunteers spent much of Saturday cooking and preparing several varieties of soup, including chicken, turkey, minestrone and stuffed cabbage soup. Others baked rolls and cookies, prepared candy for kids, and helped organize the event space.

Free grilled cheese sandwiches and corn muffins are also being served, and a Christmas karaoke setup adds a festive soundtrack to the afternoon.

“It’s filling my heart so much,” Draper said. “Seeing people come together like this reminds you that kindness is still very much alive.”

Some volunteers asked if they could bring their children, Draper said, wanting them to see compassion in action. What started as a small idea has quickly grown into a meaningful community effort, and Draper hopes this is just the beginning.

He plans to make Hot Soup, Warm Hearts an annual Christmas Eve tradition and is exploring the possibility of forming a nonprofit organization. His long-term goal is to raise funds for a food truck that could bring free meals directly to homeless communities throughout the Keene area. A musician, Draper also hopes to organize a benefit concert in the spring to support the effort.

For now, he encourages anyone who is able to stop by Railroad Square today.

“Come down, share some soup, see people, and celebrate Christmas together,” he said.