The other day, I stood at the gas pump watching the numbers climb higher and higher until my total landed just a few dollars short of $100. I remember feeling my chest tighten as I put the nozzle back, already mentally rearranging my month. Which errands could wait? Which route would save the most gas? What part of my budget would need to shrink just to make room for another tank? The truth is, it’s not just the gas prices. When fuel costs rise, everything rises with it — groceries, services, household essentials, and everyday necessities. Just when it feels like inflation couldn’t possibly climb any higher, it somehow does.
As I drove away, I found myself thinking about the families we serve. Many stand at those same gas pumps feeling the same stress and uncertainty, but for them, there is no extra room in the budget. Higher gas prices often mean taking money away from rent, prescriptions, utilities, or groceries just to make it through the week.
This spring, we have already seen an 15% increase in guests seeking food assistance; in April we served 700 more guests than normal. We anticipate rising inflation and changing SNAP regulations will continue to impact even more families in our community before our next fiscal year hits.
While our guests rely on the food bank during difficult seasons, we also rely on the compassion and generosity of individuals, businesses, volunteers, and community partners who faithfully help carry this work forward. Their kindness continues to bring hope to neighbors who need it most.
