BRANDON - Minna Tickner signed on as a volunteer driver for Meals On Wheels 25 years ago, when the national average price of gas was $1.20 a gallon.
The cost hit the $4 mark this week, but the increase will not stop volunteers from delivering hot, midday meals to people who cannot shop or cook for themselves.
"We only deliver to shut-ins that have no one with them during the day and can't drive," Tickner said. "If we don't keep going, these people won't have anything to eat. We're not going to let gas prices slow us down."
Volunteers based at 16 houses of worship prepare and deliver lunches five days a week to 170 people enrolled in the Brandon Area Churches Meals On Wheels program.
Recipients are asked to donate $2 per meal if they are financially able, but many receive free meals. Some costs are covered by the churches and private donations, but the program needs more help to keep rolling.
In addition to drivers, cooks and dishwashers, there is an urgent need for more churches to serve as food prep centers, Tickner said. To help, call program director Melody Green at (813) 689-8769.
Laura Frazier
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