Kimberly Poisson (left) and Tina Burke, co-owners of Collins Brothers Chowder, began giving away $2,000 worth of soup on Feb. 17. Telegraph photo by CHRISTOPHER ROBERSON

NASHUA – When they opened for business on Feb. 17, Kimberly Poisson and Tina Burke, co-owners of Collins Brothers Chowder, did so with a different purpose: to pay it forward.

Burke said that last year, a long-time customer, who asked to remain anonymous, donated $1,000 to Collins Brothers to be used for “an act of kindness.”

“He wanted to do something kind in his life,” said Burke. “I feel honored that he came to us, he loves this place.”

In addition, Collins Brothers matched the donation and began giving away 200 pints of soup to anyone in need.

“It seemed fitting to start it today,” said Burke, adding that Feb. 17 is National Random Acts of Kindness Day.

Although there were not many takers initially, Burke said there has been a steady flow of monetary donations.

“We had more people donate additional contributions than we had people turn in tickets for free soup,” she said. “I think it’s a matter of people spreading the word and people becoming aware of it.”

Launched by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, Random Acts of Kindness Day has been celebrated every February since 1995.