Gas Prices Threaten Meals On Wheels

Philadelphia has one of the largest elderly populations in the country.

Many need help with the basics like getting food to eat every day, but that service may be in jeopardy because of high gas prices.

A lot of volunteers who want to help out by bringing the elderly food have had to bow out because they can't afford to fill their tank to drive over food.

That could be devastating for the homebound.

Once a week Dan Goldberg gets in his car and brings food to those in need. It makes a difference in Martha's life.

But organizations like aid for friends and the Klein Jewish Community Center have both seen a 20 percent drop in their volunteers because of high gas prices.

Money spent on drivers means less money for food. Not just their life, but their spirit.

When Dan stops by to bring Martha food, it also makes her feel special.

"I think it's the connection with the outside world, a lot of seniors feel as though they've been thrown to the curb," he says.

But that connection is facing a very real threat: a tough economy that is taking a toll on volunteers who want to help but can't afford it anymore.

These organizations make quite an impact on the community, together delivering almost 500,000 meals every year.

It is going to make things really tough if they have to start picking up the tab for gas as well as food to meet the need out there.