Sarasota – March 13, 2026 – Meals on Wheels of Sarasota is thrilled to announce a generous $20,000 donation made from Church of the Redeemer’s Men of Redeemer ministry.  This meaningful gift reflects a strengthened partnership rooted in shared history and a commitment to supporting vulnerable neighbors in the Sarasota community.

In 2025, Church of the Redeemer unveiled a new model for giving outside the parish walls, involving more parishioners in service and creating deeper financial impact in the community and beyond. Parishioners and ministries were invited to select local nonprofits to actively engage with throughout the year. Men of Redeemer chose Meals on Wheels of Sarasota as its partner organization. Men of Redeemer is a ministry for all male parishioners at Redeemer. It hosts several events throughout the year to foster faith and fellowship, including Steak Night, a golf tournament, guest speakers, and more.

On Feb. 20 and March 13, Men of Redeemer experienced what “More Than a Meal” truly means. Volunteers from Men of Redeemer stepped into multiple roles within the organization —- from packing meals and assisting in the kitchen to delivering freshly prepared meals to clients’ doorsteps. Through these experiences, the group witnessed the compassion and connection that Meals on Wheels delivers every single day. The time spent was especially meaningful after learning Church of the Redeemer was one of the founding churches when Meals on Wheels of Sarasota was established in 1971.

Men of Redeemer leader Craig Burness shared why the group feels called to support Meals on Wheels: “Our Men of Redeemer ministry continues to seek avenues to support our local partners in building our outreach. Men of Redeemer is an extension of Church of the Redeemer and is blessed to connect with Meals on Wheels to be part of powerful and meaningful volunteer efforts.”

“We are incredibly grateful for Men of Redeemer’s generosity and willingness to experience our mission firsthand,” said Rhonda Leiberick, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Sarasota. “Their support helps ensure that seniors in our community not only receive nutritious meals, but also the meaningful human connection that makes such a difference in their lives.”

To donate, volunteer, get meals, or learn more about Meals on Wheels, visit MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org or call 941-366-6693.

Pictured: Men of Redeemer Presents Meals on Wheels with a $20,000 check for their Home Delivered Meal Program.

About Meals on Wheels of Sarasota

Meals on Wheels of Sarasota provides nutritious meals, social interaction, and wellness checks for the homebound and elderly in our community. Our goal is to improve the quality of life and empower seniors to live independently in their home. Since 1971, Meals on Wheels of Sarasota has delivered more than 7 million meals to homebound or elderly residents. Volunteers are essential to prepare, pack, and deliver 500 meals each day. Our service area spans from University Parkway in the north to Laurel Road in the south, and from the county border in the east, to Longboat, Lido, and Siesta Keys. To donate or learn more, visit MealsOnWheelsOfSarasota.org.

About Church of the Redeemer

Church of the Redeemer is a growing parish of more than 3,000 members in the heart of downtown Sarasota. The parish is part of the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida and a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Redeemer is known for its focus on worship, preaching, music, community outreach and families. Redeemer’s roots in Sarasota trace back to the 1880s. The campus at 222 S. Palm Ave. occupies an entire city block and hosts about 600 services each year as well as concerts, guest speakers and community service projects. To learn more, visit RedeemerSarasota.org.