Local charities Ffel the gas price crunch

By Candice Nelson
WSLS10 Reporter
Published: April 10, 2008

Local charitable organizations are also feeling the crunch of the high gas prices. The Foster Grandparent Program through the League of Older Americans recently increased the reimbursements for their volunteers, who drive to their destinations. Barbara James is the program director and said reimbursements, which used to be 49 cents a mile, rose to 55 cents a mile just recently. However, it’s capped to only 8 miles a day.

“I don’t think we would have the funds to reimburse more than what we’re already doing. It’s already strapping our budget,” said James. She also said the program just received budget cuts.

Thelma L. Brown is one of those volunteers and said she gets help whenever she can.

“My son will sometimes bring me to work. And sometimes my daughter will bring me to work,” said Brown.

But the program is encouraging their volunteers to adapt.

“Try to encourage the volunteers to carpool as much as possible. We know in a lot of situations, that’s not possible. But there are some situations where the volunteers live close,” said Linda Harshbarger, a volunteer recruiter for the program.

But other organizations are also feeling the strain. At the Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank, agencies are saying they can’t afford the drive to pick up the food. So that means more deliveries and more money for gas for the food bank.
“Our transportation for fuel and oil for vehicles last year was $21,000. This year, so far it’s $31,000. So we’re feeling the crunch as well,” said Pamela Irvine, with the food bank.

Irvine said all their money comes from contributions, but that won’t stop them from getting the job done.

“We’re looking at gas prices and always trying to evaluate where we’re buying gas and how to cut down on that. We’re looking at coordinating our pick-ups more in distribution,” said Irvine.

Both organizations say they depend on contributions and fundraising.
James said they have an urgent need for Foster Grandparents, who spend time helping at childcare centers in the area. They also need more Senior Companions, who volunteer to spend time with the elderly in the area. If want to learn more about what you can do to volunteer, call (540) 985-9600.

Also, if you would like to volunteer or donate money to the Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank, call (540) 342-3011.