Meals On Wheels for Kids coming to Wimauma

Meals on Wheels for Kids began delivering food to children in Wimauma on Monday.

Meals on Wheels for Kids was launched in March in response to COVID-19 school closures. The program, created by the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger.

The service is available for kids who are unable to access the school meal distribution sites or open food pantries throughout the county.

The program’s expansion into Wimauma is made possible by a $23,000 donation by the Valencia Lakes Sports Charity.

Children participating in Meals on Wheels for Kids receive weekly deliveries of kid-friendly frozen meals, non-perishable groceries, and fresh produce.

Over 75% of Wimauma’s residents are Hispanic. Meal deliveries in Wimauma will incorporate familiar meals, including chile rellenos and enchiladas.

“We’ve worked with community partners to try to get an idea of what these kids might like to eat,” said Caitlyn Peacock, Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger.

Starting Monday, meals will be packed at TC Delivers, then volunteer cars will be loaded with meals at Beth-El Farmworker Ministry to deliver to children and families in Wimauma.

The program currently serves 12 zip codes in Pinellas County and plans to continue expanding.

“We are humbled to contribute to those in need, especially our youth, considering the burdens with which they have been presented,” said Darren Lawlor, Vice President/General Manager of TC Delivers Tampa. “We look forward to expanding our partnership to ensure that no child in our community goes to bed hungry.”

Information about how to donate to the program or become a volunteer driver can be found at www.networktoendhunger.org.