Christmas carols filled the air at the Onset VFW on Wednesday as a small crew of volunteers packed up hot meals to-go for seniors, veterans, the homeless, and anyone else in need. 

For the past five years, volunteers led by Deneen Rose have thrown a Christmas dinner — usually a cheerful party with a DJ. To keep everyone safe during the pandemic, Rose said, she and the other organizers decided a take-out or delivery model would work best. 

Within the first half hour of the event, volunteers had already delivered about 20 meals. Each meal included ham, jag, stuffing, veggies, and a loaf of banana bread.

In addition to sending out meals, the group collected stuffed animals for the elderly at Wareham Healthcare and gift bags with toiletries and other essentials for the homeless.

Seven families in need were given gift cards to Stop & Shop and Walmart.

And, at the end of the event, everything that was left was to be brought to families living in motels.

“We definitely want to do this again next year,” said Rose. “We’re willing and ready to go to help those in need... We’re here to help them have a great holiday.”

“As long as we’re doing something positive, doing something for the homeless and the senior citizens, we’re happy,” said Kathy Silva, who was volunteering at the event.

Those who would like to donate for next year’s event can mail donations to Onset VFW c/o Deneen Rose, P.O. Box 106, Onset, MA 02558.