As gas prices climb across Pennsylvania, local Meals on Wheels Erie volunteers say the growing cost of filling up is adding pressure — but for many, the people depending on them matter more than what’s on the receipt.
According to AAA, the average price of a gallon of gas in Pennsylvania is hovering just above $4. For Meals on Wheels Erie volunteers, that expense comes straight out of their own pockets as they use personal vehicles to deliver meals to homebound residents across the county.
Barbara Brairton has been volunteering with Meals on Wheels Erie since 2012 and says she has recently seen the rising costs force at least one volunteer to step away.
“I talked to one of our volunteers just two weeks ago, and he said he had to quit because the gas prices were going up so much,” Brairton said.
Still, Brairton continues to deliver, saying the mission outweighs the financial challenge.
“It is a challenge — the gas prices, there is no question,” she said. “But I think these people depend on us. And for me, it’s fulfilling.”
Brairton said she’s formed close bonds with many of the people on her route — relationships she isn’t willing to give up.
“I know the people I deliver to. I almost know their relatives — their kids, their dogs, their cats,” she said. “I don’t want to change my route.”
Other volunteers echoed that sentiment.
Jon Bickerstaff, who has volunteered for more than two years, says gas prices don’t factor into his decision to keep showing up.
“It’s not the gas that fuels us — it’s the mission,” Bickerstaff said. “It’s more about the impact that we have on the community and our neighbors.”
Newer volunteers say the rising cost hasn’t slowed them down either. Emmett Verdecchia joined Meals on Wheels Erie earlier this year after retiring and calls the experience rewarding.
“A couple extra bucks in gas just doesn’t even factor into the satisfaction that you get,” Verdecchia said.
Meals on Wheels Erie Executive Director Jennifer Hoffman says the organization relies heavily on volunteers — especially as demand continues to grow.
The nonprofit operates with a small staff and depends on more than 120 volunteers to help deliver an average of more than 230 meals each day across up to 17 routes.
“For those folks that come here every single day, on their own time and on their own dime, to make sure our neighbors are fed — I couldn’t ask for better people,” Hoffman said.
She adds that Volunteer Appreciation Week is an important opportunity to recognize that dedication.
“They come here every single day, on their own time and on their own dime,” Hoffman said. “We’re making sure we’re giving our thanks to our volunteers.”
Even as prices rise, volunteers say the connections they build — and the people they serve — make every mile worth it.
“They’re as concerned about me as we are about them,” Bickerstaff said. “And that’s a special feeling.”
If you’re interested in donating or volunteering, visit their website at MealsOnWheelsErie.org.