Meals of Joy, a nonprofit with a mission to bring a delicious and ready-to-eat meal to seniors in need, will host its annual fundraising gala.

“A Night To Make a Difference” takes place from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at the PebbleCreek Tuscany Clubhouse, 16262 Clubhouse Drive, in Goodyear.

The gala will feature a meal, live entertainment and a celebration of two members of the community who have made a significant impact on the West Valley and the work of Meals of Joy.

Once the pandemic hit, the demand for meals has increased exponentially and recent inflation has further impacted a senior’s ability to obtain the food they need day-to-day, according to a press release. Meals of Joy provides income-based meal delivery, and every meal is made fresh daily, never frozen.

Meals are delivered to the client by a volunteer at no extra charge.

To date this fiscal year, Meals of Joy has delivered nearly 8,400 free meals to the most vulnerable seniors. This often includes meals for individuals who are unable to cook for themselves due to serious illness or injury and often have to make the impossible choices between eating and paying for medical bills or prescriptions.

Throughout the year, more than 31,000 total meals (low cost and no cost) have been delivered by volunteers. Meals of Joy is currently aided by nearly 80 volunteer drivers who deliver meals daily, even in extreme heat.

The gala will also recognize Rev. Dr. Lynne Kammerand from the Church at Litchfield Park and Deanna Kupcik, Buckeye Chamber of Commerce president and CEO.

Gala tickets are $75 per person and are available by clicking here.