Meals on Wheels is now in need of drivers to ensure the service can continue for years to come.
Currently, the organization provides meals for approximately 50 individuals who cannot shop or cook for themselves. The meals are purchased from Winn-Dixie and driven to seven zones in the Plant City area five days a week. Sharon McKendrick, office manager for Meals on Wheels, said the drivers pick up the lunches at 10:30 a.m. and are normally completed within an hour.
“Everything here is volunteer-run, from the officers to the office workers to the drivers,” McKendrick said. “They get nothing but an appreciation dinner. People just want to give back, to help the community they live in.”
Meals on Wheels is searching for anyone over the age of 18 years old that has a drivers license and insurance. Ideally, the driver would be available the same day every week or every other week to have a routine schedule.
McKendrick said the Plant City community has been essential in allowing the organization to prosper. Much of the funds used come from groups like Unity in the Community, Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce members and more.
The meals are purchased from Winn Dixie for $6 each. Recipients pay a portion of the cost based on their income. Some pay nothing, others pay $1 to $5 a meal. The funds raised by the community allow the organization to provide the food, which is given directly to local residents.
Most of the clients are unable to leave their home to get sustenance for themselves, whether because of old age or a disability. The group does its best to keep its clients prepared for all emergencies. If there is an event, like a storm brewing, Meals on Wheels will use the funds to buy supplies to give their clients in case their service is delayed.
“Last year, when Hurricane Irma was headed to Florida, we sent out hurricane packs,” McKendrick said. “We delivered sacks of nonperishable food so if we couldn’t deliver because of the storm they would still have meals.”
Those interested in driving for the organization can call the office on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 813-754-9932. The volunteers will be trained with another driver until they are comfortable tackling their own routes.
“We’re really just looking for people that want to do something for the community,” McKendrick said.