East Texas Meals on Wheels starts waitlist because of high demand, costs

Michael Garcia
·2 min read

TYLER, Texas (KETK) – Meals on Wheels East Texas has had to put about 450 people on waitlist since they’ve seen an increase in demand due to the rising cost of food and other resources.

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“We would love to provide meals to all those in need but with the increase in demand paired with the rising costs of the food we provide and the decrease in funding, we have had to implement the waitlist,” said executive director of Meals on Wheels East Texas, Tiffany Damskov.

The nonprofit organization said this is the first time they’ve had a waitlist since 2011 and they’re blaming factors like the “rising cost of food, insurance, medications and other resources older and disabled adults need to live.”

The group emphasized that they provide people with much more than just a meal.

“We provide so much more than just lunch,” Damskov said. “As that meal delivery includes a vital safety check and a visit from a friend that brings social interaction, provides meaning to their day, and offers peace of mind for their families.”

Volunteers who deliver the meals can feel the impact of the waitlist as well.

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“It is heartbreaking to know that there are so many older adults in our community who need our services, but we are unable to reach them all due to the increased costs hitting us at the same time as the increased needs,” said Taylor Berumen, a six-year meal delivery volunteer and chair elect on the group’s board of directors.

Meals on Wheels East Texas said that a $5 donation can cover the gap that government funding doesn’t cover for a single meal and $50 donations can cover two weeks of meals for an individual in need.

“We appreciate your prayers and your support to help us save lunch for our community,” Damskov said.

To learn more, call 903-593-7385 or visit Meals on Wheels East Texas online.

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