Inflation, Food & Fuel Prices

March 16, 2022 – The Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York is preparing for a surge in demand due to rising grocery and fuel costs, all while acclimating to supply chain issues and additional fuel costs that are affecting their own operations.

Charitable organizations experience the same financial pressures faced by individuals and families. In 2021, the Food Bank’s fleet of trucks traveled 471,000 miles across 23-counties of New York State, an area that encompasses 41% of New York’s landmass. The Food Bank distributed more than 51 million pounds of food and grocery products last year, the equivalent of 42 million meals. At the same time, supply chain issues, rising grocery costs, and increased need forced the Food Bank to get creative with product sourcing and distribution.

“We have been spending at least 15% more than last year to obtain a high quality, nutritious mix of food, sourcing alternative foods when our staples are unavailable,” said Molly Nicol, Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Food Bank. “At the same time, we’ve had to spend more to distribute that food – fuel expenditures alone have increased $5,000 per month more than last year at this time. It’s a double-whammy.” As always, the Food Bank remains committed to meeting the needs of our hungry neighbors at this difficult time.

The Food Bank will need additional financial support to meet the demand and asks for the community’s support. Contributions can be mailed to the Regional Food Bank at 965 Albany Shaker Rd., Latham, NY 12110 or made online at regionalfoodbank.net.