It has been all volunteer hands to the packing pumps over the past few days in Napier and Hastings as the 2013 Hawke's Bay Christmas Cheer Appeal wrapped up - literally.
Last-minute donations of food and gifts helped finish off the last of the cheer parcels.
The first batches of parcels were delivered to the happy recipients late last week and the distribution will be continuing today, and in the case of one of those tireless delivery people there is a musical difference.
Brenda Wainohu from Flaxmere, who has been a cheer liaison person for two agencies sorting and delivering parcels, is taking some extra helpers along with her today in the form of a team of carol singers.
As the parcels are handed over the individuals and families will be festively serenaded. A nice touch.
The appeal got some heartwarming last-minute donations.
The Tamatea Brownies put together a fine box of food items - all donated by the youngsters as part of their pursuit of a Community Service badge. And as they have done in past years, Gemma and Matthew Eagles of Napier put together a box of goodies including chocolates, toys and a Christmas pudding.
For Hastings cheer coordinator Jo Reyngoud and her crew the last few days of collections from the public libraries brought smiles to their faces.
"People have been very generous this year - it's wonderful to see that community spirit." And that spirit was well illustrated by the efforts of the children, parents and teachers at Havelock North Primary School who gave the crucial cash fund a great boost of $195.
With a few anonymous donations the final tally came in at $32,947 - a terrific effort to make Christmas a special time for those less fortunate.