Rising gas prices impacting church volunteer services in Gary

Published: 2005-09-02

MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (CNS) -- The Diocese of Gary runs on wheels as well as faith. That faith, however, is being tested at the filling station, with unleaded regular gasoline now surpassing $3 a gallon. Nonetheless, volunteer services throughout the diocese continue, as they are needed more than ever, especially when gas prices may gouge those already in financial need. Stan Wrobel, district council president for the diocesanwide Society of St. Vincent de Paul, said increases in gas prices will eventually take their toll. The council is receiving 110-120 calls a month for aid, he said. "It's starting to add up." Gas has not been a major issue yet, he said, but it will impact the society when volunteers pick up and deliver furniture. For Bob Mendoza, a parishioner at St. Edward in Lowell who assists migrant workers, "gas prices, as far as delivering food ... it's a pain." Mendoza, a volunteer, estimates he puts 50-60 miles on his vehicle a week meeting with migrants at work sites or at a Spanish Mass, and helping at a local food pantry.

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