The Tucker Van’s volunteer supporters have been handing out hot meals to the needy for three years, but co-ordinator David Buckby warned its days could be numbered.

Generous corporate donations helped put the Tucker Van on the road in 2010, and since then, a number of local businesses have continued their support of the project through donations of meat and vegetables and help with the cooking.

And, it’s only eight months since Bathurst Volkswagen came on board with the donation of a $40,000 vehicle to replace the ageing original van.

But, Mr Buckby said increasing running costs, and a shortage of community grants, money had put the van’s future in doubt.

“If there’s no money coming forward the van could be off the road by the end of September,” Mr Buckby said.

“In past years, bridging funding from different government and community organisations has come out at this time of the year but that hasn’t happened this year.

“Previously we’ve been able to put in funding applications in June and July to get funding in August or September which has kept us going until the main money became available around December and January. “I’m really not sure what we’re going to do this year.”

Mr Buckby said outgoings had increased since the Tucker Van split from Bathurst Men’s Shed and started paying rent on premises in Hampden Park Road. Insurance is another ongoing expense.

But, demand for the van’s meals is as strong as ever, with volunteers handing out around 300 meals a week – to all walks of life.

“People seem to think we’re feeding no-hopers that’s not the case,” Mr Buckby said.

“We’re now getting people come along who have been professional people that have been made redundant and are just struggling to make ends meet. There are more people out there doing it tough than many realise and while there are several charities doing what we can to help, we’re all chasing the same dollar.”

Bathurst Tucker Van volunteers hand out hot meals Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 6-7pm, outside the Kelso Community Centre on Bonnor Street.

Anyone interested in volunteering or financially supporting the Tucker Van can call David Buckby on 6331 2742 or 0414 768 160. All donations are tax-deductible.