by Susan Slater

Meals on Wheels of Pasco carries a simple but powerful mission. No senior should feel isolated or go hungry. Director Beth Aker came from the corporate world, never even thinking of working at a non-profit. “Meals on Wheels fell into my lap,” said Aker. “And I have never looked back.” After seeing the Harriet Tubman movie, she discovered her purpose. “Do what the Lord calls you to do,” said Aker who was obsessed with Miss Tubman as a child.

Meals on Wheels help homebound seniors and adults, offering not only nutrition but also a friendly visit and a vital safety check. For family members, volunteers provide a second set of eyes, helping ensure loved ones are cared for and looked after. For clients, the visit can ease loneliness, bring comfort, connection and routine. For some, the volunteers may be the only people they see all day. They also meet practical needs, including dietary restrictions, pet supplies and incontinence items when available.

At the heart of the organization is a belief that everyone has value. Volunteers come through the doors to cook, prep, sort, process food, pack meals, load cars, direct traffic, register pantry clients, deliver meals, write cards, prepare birthday gifts and send thank-you notes. Even a task that seems small, such as opening bags or signing cards, becomes essential when viewed as part of a larger mission. “I have found that people stay where they feel appreciated,” said Aker. “Those who leave do so because of health concerns or because they move away, not because they no longer enjoy what they are doing.” Some community service participants return later to volunteer because they love the atmosphere and the sense of purpose it provides.

Feeding You With Love Food Pantry covers East Pasco residents experiencing food insecurity. The pantry grew from a long-held desire to keep more donated food in the local community. They receive food intended to support a four-person household, including protein, dairy, grains, fruits and vegetables. When Atonement Lutheran Church’s pantry closed after hurricane damage, Meals on Wheels of Pasco were asked to take over that mission. With support from the board and staff, the pantry was incorporated into the organization’s work.

Another important part of the organization’s outreach is the Genesis Center, a community space open to groups and programs that educate, encourage or help move people’s lives forward. AdventHealth hosts lunch-and-learn programs there, schools use the space for testing and sewing and quilting groups create items for the community. CHIPZ, the Community Hope and Intervention Project in Zephyrhills, began at the Genesis Center in 2021 with Beth Aker and Chief Brewer with a small group. It has since grown into a broader community effort focused on helping vulnerable residents and addressing homelessness.

Seniors in Service also host monthly events designed to bring people out of isolation and into the community. For those who receive help, Meals on Wheels offer dignity, nourishment and connection. Feeding You with Love Food Pantry - For more info call 656-232-9355 or sign up online at https://www.mealsonwheelspasco.org/, click on “programs” and Feeding You With Love Food Pantry, read and scroll. Meals on Wheels of Pasco - https://www.facebook.com/epmow, To get more information or volunteer call (813) 782-7859. ♥