Eighteen-year-old Samantha and 16-year-old Kimberly Munson will give up their Christmas Day this year to provide lunch for Griffith residents facing a not-so-merry Christmas, proving the city’s older residents don’t have a monopoly on goodwill.

The inspiring pair will be just two of about 25 locals helping brighten the day for people who would normally be alone.

But don’t tell them what they are doing is unusual – as far as they are concerned, they are the ones receiving a gift.

“It’s just so good to see so many people happy at Christmas who don’t have others to share it with,” Samantha said.

“Christmas is supposed to be a happy time for everyone, not just those who are fortunate.”

In the past the pair helped their parents at the lunch, but this year it was their idea to pitch in.

“We did it two years ago

and I remember sitting with people and sharing their stories and seeing how happy it made them,” Kimberly said.

“It is just a good feeling meeting these new people and sharing the day with them.'

“We generally open our presents at home and then just sit around eating.

“Mum and Samantha will be there too and some of the Baptist Youth Group so I’m looking forward to it.”

Every year, the Griffith Church Association nominates a local church to host the Christmas lunch and this year it is the Griffith Baptist Church’s turn.

Reverend Kevin Webb said the girls and all of the other helpers should be congratulated.

“It’s fantastic when young people are willing to help those less fortunate,” he said.

“Both of the girls are very enthusiastic kids with great hearts.

“We have 80 people coming this year and it’s going to be a good day.”

Proud mother Carmel said she was delighted that her daughters had made the suggestion this year.

“They asked me if we could do it this year,” she said.

“It is nice to know that they wanted to help do something for others,” she said.

“I’m extremely proud, they are good kids, they think of others and that is a nice quality.”