One by one, hundreds of paper bags were filled with pies and utensils, to go along with the meals being delivered by Catholic Charities Worcester County on Christmas morning.
“It’s so important to let them know that someone still values and cares about them even thorough all of this because a lot of times the person delivering the meal is the only one they will see all day," said Maddie Sirois, Media Coordinator at Catholic Charities Worcester County.
This year’s sit down portion of the Bishop’s Holiday Dinner won’t be held because of COVID-19, but more than 3,000 meals will still be delivered to those in need. Catholic Charities staff said it’s about 800 more than last year.
“We have really seen an increase, and we have found more people are staying home and not seeing family," said Sirois.
Some volunteers are part of the men’s and women’s addiction recovery program.
“This is kind of my community and I definitely have been helped in the past and it’s just like giving it back. Paying it forward," said Sara Williams.
Others heard about helping out, by word of mouth.
“It gives me a nice warm fuzzy feeling and I know the direct cause and the benefit of it. I know people who are getting the meals and how it directly impacts people. I like knowing who it’s helping," said James Elliott.
On Friday, about 600 more volunteers will be delivering meals and spreading holiday cheer. To-go meals will also be available at St. Peter’s Elementary School in Worcester.