AT&T Donates $5,000 To Meals On Wheels Of Tampa

TAMPA, FL — Since March, Meals On Wheels of Tampa has increased production of meals served throughout the Tampa community. The strain of COVID-19 has been especially challenging and isolating for Tampa’s homebound seniors and individuals. Executive Director, Steve King, wanted to make sure that no person in need of services had to be placed on a waiting list. Because of this, Meals On Wheels of Tampa is excited to form a new relationship with AT&T.

“This support means so much to our mission, especially during the time of the pandemic, as we continue to provide the healthy meals and daily visits to the recipients we serve.” says Steve King, Executive Director.

The mission of Meals On Wheels of Tampa is to nourish, enrich and strengthen the lives of seniors and individuals who have difficulty leaving their homes and are challenged to prepare meals. In August, Meals On Wheels of Tampa was able to move into their new facility at 5320 North Boulevard in Tampa. The greatly expanded kitchen has already helped them serve even more individuals. The generous $5,000 donation from AT&T will help underwrite the cost of meals for those who cannot afford to pay. This greatly appreciated gift comes in at a critical time.

“The economic impact of COVID-19 has left the threat of hunger looming over more Floridians than ever before,” said Edward Narain, assistant vice president, external affairs, AT&T Florida. “That’s why AT&T is stepping forward to help tackle the problem of hunger in Tampa by providing nourishing food for those in need.”

MOW Tampa’s home delivered meal program provides hot and nutritious meals to the vulnerable homebound, disabled, and elderly who have difficulty shopping for food or preparing a meal. Meals provide recipients with improved diet, health, and well-being. A volunteer driver delivers hot meals during the weekday. For many of the homebound, a visit from a volunteer is the only human contact they will receive that day. This also allows for a ‘safety’ check-in, which brings much comfort to those they serve and their families.

Meals are nutritionally balanced, meeting dietary guidelines for the elderly. The cost of meal service is determined on a case by case basis, with a maximum cost of $5.50 per meal. Approximately 70% of Meals On Wheels of Tampa recipients cannot afford the full cost which is why the support from AT&T is so important. With their gift, more than 900 meals will be underwritten. “We are so grateful to AT&T for helping to lessen the burden and provide access to a warm and nourishing meal for so many individuals,” shared King. It makes this holiday season a little brighter.

To learn more about how to become involved or support Meals On Wheels of Tampa, please visit www.mowtampa.org or call 813-238-8410.

About Meals On Wheels of Tampa:
Meals On Wheels of Tampa has been committed to nourishing, enriching, and strengthening the lives of the homebound and seniors of Tampa since 1975. Today, MOW Tampa serves more than 800 people with a hot meal delivered by volunteers during the lunch hour. Meals On Wheels of Tampa is a private, non-profit organization that relies on its community for support and receives no federal or state funding. www.MOWTampa.org

About Philanthropy & Social Innovation at AT&T
Our society doesn't work if it doesn't work equally for all. We recognize that inequalities are pervasive and we have a role to play in helping to address them. That’s why we’re committed to advancing education, creating opportunities, strengthening communities and improving lives, particularly amongst historically underserved populations. We have a long history of investing in projects that promote academic and economic achievement and addressing community needs that promote social justice and racial equality. With a financial commitment of $600 million through AT&T Aspire since 2008, AT&T has leveraged technology, relationships and social innovation to help give people – regardless of age, gender, race or socioeconomic status – the opportunity to succeed.

This press release was produced by AT&T. The views expressed here are the author's own.