ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – As gas prices continue to hit record highs, it’s also hurting organizations that are trying to help others.

The Gathering Church in St. Petersburg is finding it harder to feed families in need because some of those families can’t afford to drive to the church.

Janice Roth started this ministry last November, calling it Food is Love.

At first it was just for Thanksgiving, but it turned into a weekly service.

“It was such a success, and we found there was such a need, people are extremely hungry in our community, so we continued on with the ministry,” Roth said.

She says volunteers have made over 3,500 hot meals since, feeding dozens of families a week.

But in recent weeks, some of those families in need are struggling to get to the church to pick up their food.

“The need is growing by leaps and bounds. The problem is we can’t get people here because they can’t afford the gas,” Roth said.

She’s working to find a solution – a community market that would be a stop on a public bus line.

They could then bring the food to some of those in need.

They’re also currently preparing for what they’re calling an Italian Feast Fundraiser on Wednesday to help with rising costs and replace some kitchen equipment at the church.

Despite the challenges, they’re hoping to keep helping as much as they can.

“We sometimes wonder why we’re doing this. The folks that do come in, they’re in tears saying we’re helping them. That’s what makes it all worth it,” Roth said.

The Gathering Church’s fundraiser is this Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. They will be serving a three-course Italian dinner.

Proceeds go to the Food is Love Ministry. It’s at 4440 Shore Acres Blvd.

For more information, visit: https://thegatheringstpete.org