Spotlight On: Meals On Wheels

For many years, PAR employees have volunteered their time to serve as part of a local Meals on Wheels of Tampa route. Each week, a rotating group of PAR employees deliver fresh, nutritious meals to homebound individuals. For many of the individuals visited, delivery drivers provide more than just food—they provide human connection and a way to live independently.

Meals on Wheels of Tampa was founded by Gloria Fuentes in 1975. A Tampa resident, Fuentes was caring for two homebound relatives who lived on opposite sides of the city. She recognized the need to assist not only her family but also others who were in similar circumstances. Originally, the organization delivered meals to 14 people—today, they serve more than 800 individuals who depend on caring volunteers to deliver nourishing meals to their door. Meals on Wheels of Tampa also offers programs that deliver pet food, hurricane supplies, and more. They now offer diabetic and renal menus for their homebound meal program recipients with dietary restrictions.

If you live in the Tampa area, Meals on Wheels is looking for more volunteers to help eliminate hunger, isolation, and loss of independence for the homebound in our community. Learn more about how you can get involved here. Outside of Tampa? Meals On Wheels of Tampa is a proud member of Meals on Wheels of America—find a way to give back in your community!