GREENFIELD — “Boy, did we pick the day for this!” exclaimed a Greenfield Lodge of Elks member with a laugh as he brushed fresh snow off his jacket.
Despite a generous coating of the white stuff, the Elks were not deterred Saturday morning from carrying out their plans for the day: delivering dozens of baskets packed full of complete Christmas dinners — turkey and all — to some of the area’s neediest residents.
The recipients included elderly community members, including 50- and 60-year members of the Elks, who have difficulty getting around, low-income families and others, said Bob Mott, a Tiler at the lodge on Federal Street.
The event is tradition for the Elks — the money raised during a recent Turkey Trot raffle was used to offset the cost. Mott said he’s been a member of the Elks for more than three decades, and its been happening for as long as he can remember.
“We provide it for the neediest community members,” he said, noting that names and addresses were provided through community organizations like TRIAD and local churches or religious groups.
The baskets include rolls, potatoes, carrots, cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, butter, milk, canned vegetables and a pie.
“It’s the full deal,” Mott said. “It just makes you feel so good to give back to the community, and take care of the less fortunate.”
The gift of grub was certainly appreciated by Betty Boutwell in Greenfield, who was surprised around 9 a.m. when a group of Elks trudged up her snow-covered driveway and dropped a turkey in her arms.
“I think it’s wonderful,” Boutwell said. “It means a lot, really. I didn’t expect it.”