ATLANTA — With gas prices hovering near $4 a gallon in Georgia, filling up the tank has become a major expense for many families.
That’s why Channel 2 Action News teamed up with Family 2 Family to help drivers at a Kroger gas station in Lilburn.
One of those drivers was Monica Hill, who was surprised by Channel 2’s Fred Blankenship while on her way to work.
“Would you do us the pleasure of allowing us to fill up your tank?” Fred asked.
“Oh thank you,” Hill replied. “I would love that.”
Hill works as a traveling nurse for a nonprofit hospice organization and spends much of her day on the road.
“You understand about paying it forward,” Fred told her.
“Yes,” Hill said. “I’m like, ‘Oh my goodness, somebody is doing this for me. I love it.’”
Hill said soaring gas prices have become impossible to ignore.
“Oh gosh, yeah, because I drive all day long everywhere,” she said.
According to AAA, Georgia drivers are paying around $3.96 per gallon. At that price, a commuter driving 40 miles a day, five days a week, and averaging 27 miles per gallon could spend nearly $130 each month just getting to work.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Rick Ross accused of felony battery by strangulation
- Tennessee governor halts executions after Christa Pike survives lethal injection attempt
- Newnan woman admits to starving, torturing 11-year-old adopted son for years
Channel 2’s consumer adviser Clark Howard said those expenses are having a real impact on families.
“Gas prices, particularly for people who commute long distances, are actually affecting their quality of life,” Howard said.
Howard recommends using apps like GasBuddy and comparing prices with warehouse clubs, which often offer some of the lowest prices in a market.
“You can use apps like GasBuddy, or you can follow closely what’s going on at the warehouse clubs, which tend to set the lowest price point in every market for a gallon of gas,” Howard said.
Back at the pump, the total kept climbing as Hill watched.
“Oh my goodness, look at that,” she said.
When the pump finally clicked off, the total came to $67.96.
“Thank you. Like really, thank you,” Hill told Fred.
Meeting people like Hill is why Fred says the partnership is important.
“Meeting Monica and being able to tell stories like hers really makes this whole process and journey worthwhile,” Blankenship said. “We’re going to keep going out there and helping you with your gas and grocery needs because we know it’s tough out there. And we are here for you every step of the way.”