When Jim and Janet Frazier needed assistance during a time of crisis, the kindness of strangers provided it. Today, their Network of Care organization returns the favor to tens of thousands of families every year.

On Saturday, March 10, the nonprofit organization hosts its sixth annual crab feed from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Contra Costa County Fairgrounds, 1201 W. 10th St. in Antioch. Proceeds benefit the all-volunteer program that cares for more than 2,000 families per month.

In 2000 the Fraziers’ daughters, Stephanie and Lindsey, were involved in a car accident in which Stephanie, 20, died and Lindsey was critically injured. While Jim and Janet were simultaneously grieving for Stephanie and holding vigil over Lindsey, a nurse asked them when they had last eaten. They were unable to remember, and the nurse immediately shared her dinner with them so they could stay at their daughter’s bedside.

It was that simple gesture that provided the seed from which the Network of Care blossomed.

Established in 2004 in memory of Stephanie, the Network provides snack and meal bags to families in crisis so they can remain with their child.

“This started out as a way to heal,” said Janet in a previous interview with The Press. “It takes you out of yourself by doing for others. Stephanie was the kind of person who was always helping her friends; she liked to help people. I know she would be proud of this.”

The Network of Care began with one hospital and has continually grown to help 98,000 families at more than 50 hospitals in 13 counties throughout California and Colorado.

The $50 admission to the crab feed includes raffle prizes, a silent auction and an all-you-can-eat crab dinner. For tickets or additional information, call Janet Frazier at 925-584-4086, Jim Frazier at 925-250-6831or e-mail janetfraz@yahoo.com or jmfrzr@sbcglobal.net. To learn more about The Network of Care, visit www.thenetworkofcare.org.