Food Bank of Western Massachusetts sees strain in rising delivery costs

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - We’re into the dog days of summer, and the summer heat is driving an increase of guests — and adding a greater demand to local pantries. With costs rising due to conflict overseas, it’s becoming harder for pantries to keep up and deliver to those in need.

Western Mass News caught up with The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Executive Director Andrew Morehouse, who said while their main goal is to get food to those who need assistance, the rising cost of gas and diesel prices is making it difficult, “we’re having a hard time with increased prices. Our fuel costs have gone up 40% over the last six months, at least. So, we have a fleet of refrigerated trucks and vans that are on the road every day of the week, traveling over 100,000 miles every year. And so, we’re having a hard time keeping up with the costs, just like other businesses.”

Morehouse also said at a time like this, he’s counting on the community’s assistance, “we’re just reaching out to the community at large and to state and federal authorities to support our mission so that we can pay for the increased cost of operating and meeting the demand for food assistance that’s out there.”