Feeding Pasco's Elderly has delivered more than 143,760 meals to homebound seniors across Pasco County, the nonprofit and county government announced Wednesday, Aug. 26.

The milestone marks progress in the organization's campaign to clear the Meals on Wheels waiting list, which Pasco County Senior Services confirms still exists for its home-delivered meals program. The program serves seniors in Land O' Lakes, Lutz, Odessa and communities throughout the county.

The all-volunteer nonprofit, founded in 2014 and based in San Antonio, raises funds and secures annual United Way of Pasco County grants to cover meal costs for seniors who would otherwise go without. The waiting list persists.

One in six Pasco County seniors experiences hunger or food insecurity, according to data presented at the organization's May 6 Leadership Breakfast at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel. About 25 percent of the county's roughly 650,000 residents are senior citizens, according to Feeding Pasco's Elderly. The organization describes many of these seniors as the "hidden hungry" because they are homebound and isolated.

Executive Director Nikki Hayes leads the nonprofit alongside President Mike Wells, Vice President Mike Fasano and Treasurer Richard W. Hayes. Pasco County Commissioner Seth Weightman, vice chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, served as the featured speaker at the May breakfast.

Pasco County Government said on Instagram on Aug. 5 that the Board of County Commissioners has extended gratitude for the partnership and its dedication to serving local seniors.

Pasco County Senior Services delivers a week's worth of frozen meals to homebound residents age 60 and older. Seniors can call 727-834-3400 to inquire about home delivery or find a senior center.

Residents who want to support the effort can visit feedingpasco.com or call 727-869-0642. A donation of $1,500 provides meals for one senior for an entire year, according to the organization's website.