The financial strain on our neighbors continues to grow as fuel costs rise. As the price of fuel increases, so do the costs of everyday essentials, making already difficult choices—between paying for housing, fuel, or food—even harder for families across our community.
As the need to support our neighbors increases, Houston Food Bank is also feeling the impact of rising fuel costs. These increases directly affect our operational expenses and challenge our ability to deliver food efficiently and consistently to southeast Texas.
Since January 2026, our diesel fuel costs have risen from $3.21/gal to $5.42/gal, a 69% jump in just a few months. With a fleet of 113 vehicles traveling more than 1.7 million miles each year, these rising costs quickly multiply. They affect our delivery routes and significantly increase the real cost of distributing food across our 18‑county service area.
Despite these challenges, Houston Food Bank remains committed to serving our neighbors but rising fuel costs make that mission more challenging at a time when demand continues to grow.
Your support ensures nutritious food continues to reach our neighbors across southeast Texas. Every $1 provides 3 meals and makes sure neighbors have reliable access to food during a time of rising costs and growing need.