Rising gas prices are creating even more pressure on families already struggling to afford everyday essentials, which has led to a spike in demand at the San Antonio Food Bank compared to the same time last year.

The ongoing war in Iran has disrupted the global supply chain of crude oil, which has led to increased gas prices. In San Antonio, many families are seeing the costly impacts at the pump and in many cases having to weigh the purchase of fuel and food.

“Most people are telling me they’re spending about 50% more in fuel,” said Eric Cooper, president and CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank.

The San Antonio Food Bank is serving more than 140,000 individuals and families; a 20% increase compared to the same time period in 2025.

“Bottom line is, they’re putting more money in their tank than they are in their grocery cart,” Cooper said.

While the nonprofit is working to meet the growing need, it is also facing financial strain of its own when it comes to ensuring its fleet of 50 vehicles is fuel-ready.

“We’ve had a 50% increase in our fuel budget, and we have to fundraise to put those gallons of diesel into those trucks,” Cooper said. “When we’re hiring a third-party trucking company, those carriers are charging more per mile to offset their increases.”

Cooper said the San Antonio Food Bank is operating at a high level of efficiency amid the challenges.

“We use the term, ‘squeeze the buffalo off the nickel.’ We want to make sure that we’re having the kind of impact. But when you’re that lean and unplanned, unbudgeted expensive of a half a million dollars, we feel it.”

Inside the food bank’s massive warehouse, there are noticeable gaps on shelves where food would typically be stocked, something Cooper calls unusual for this time of year.

Even with the challenges, he remains confident they will be able to replenish supplies ahead of the summer months, when demand typically rises.

“Families should never go hungry. We’re trying to get the right amounts and the right varieties to make sure that we can really nourish. But we can help,” Cooper said. “It’s all about coming together. It’s about moving through those hard times. I know we’re going to move through this. I am so grateful for our community that’s always supported us, grateful for great companies.”

For San Antonio residents like Ruby Rodriguez, the rising costs are already taking a toll.

“My savings already got depleted,” Rodriguez said.

Still, she remains hopeful as she navigates mounting expenses.

“I live by faith alone because I said God is always the provider,” Rodriguez said.

So far, the food bank has not had to ration food to families, a reality Cooper hopes stays true.

“That trickle-down effect is what makes us anxious, knowing that we're seeing this uptick in demand now. What will that look like in six months if things don't move to a more resolved state when it comes to the world's need for energy," Cooper said.

The San Antonio Food Bank is ready to help. To learn more, visit the food bank's website and call 210-431-8326.