Food Bank of Iowa fleet lined up at dock

DES MOINES, Iowa (April 28, 2026) – Gasoline prices in the U.S. rose today to their highest level in four years with no immediate end to the war with Iran in sight. Diesel prices have increased even more quickly, surging 45% since the war began Feb. 28.

The pain at the pump is hurting consumers everywhere, and rising fuel costs are hitting Food Bank of Iowa especially hard. The food bank’s truck fuel costs have increased 47% since February.

Transportation costs affect almost everything Food Bank of Iowa does – from the price it pays to source food, to the cost to deliver that food to the doorsteps of 700 partners across 55 Iowa counties. Food Bank of Iowa provides free delivery to its partner pantries and meal sites across a service area spanning 30,000 square miles.

Diesel costs strain budget
“We’ve worked hard to make sure our trucks leave our distribution centers full and delivery routes are as efficient as possible,” said Food Bank of Iowa Chief Distribution Officer Sonja LeSher. “But with a fleet that drives 270,000 miles a year, with diesel now hovering around $5 a gallon, there is little we can do to combat fuel prices. It’s more important than ever we keep the shelves, coolers and freezers stocked, because more Iowans are seeking food assistance. Yet every gallon of diesel we are buying now costs about $1.59 more than it did in February. We’re spending $5,000 more each month on fuel, and that’s the equivalent of 8,334 meals.”

With fewer food distributions coming from USDA, record need for food assistance, and fuel costs to navigate, Food Bank of Iowa continues to appreciate every dollar donated to support its mission, Vice President of Philanthropy Bergetta Beardsley added.

“This is yet another challenge in an uncertain time, but Food Bank of Iowa and our partners are here to provide food for our neighbors for the long haul. If you need help, or if you can help, as always, please visit us at foodbankiowa.org,” she said.

About Food Bank of Iowa
Established in 1982, Food Bank of Iowa provides nutritious food for Iowa children, families, seniors and veterans to lead full and active lives, strengthening their communities. Serving 55 of Iowa’s 99 counties, Food Bank of Iowa delivers 28 million pounds of food to its 700 partners annually. Learn more at foodbankiowa.org.

Media contact:
Annette Hacker, chief communications and strategy officer, Food Bank of Iowa, 515-867-2885, [email protected]