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Rising Diesel Costs Strain NC Food Distributors, Prompt Gas-Card Appeals

5/18/2026

43 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Higher diesel prices have forced North Carolina food-distribution nonprofits in the Triad to absorb fuel costs while serving more families.
Out of the Garden Project spent $2,700 on fuel in April 2025 and nearly $4,000 in April 2026, with each truck fill-up now $160-$300.
Beth Crise and Susan Cox urged food donations, volunteering, financial contributions, and gas-card donations to support drivers amid reduced delivery trips.

History

Historical Context

After OPEC’s October 1973 embargo, President Richard Nixon created the Federal Energy Office, appointing William E. Simon to allocate domestic oil, yet price controls forced “old” oil to stay at 1973 levels while “new” oil surged, driving crude from $3 to $12 per barrel—a 300 % jump. The shock spurred nationwide gasoline rationing and left modern nonprofits struggling with high fuel costs.

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Story summary

Higher diesel prices have forced North Carolina food-distribution nonprofits in the Triad to absorb fuel costs while serving more families.
Out of the Garden Project spent $2,700 on fuel in April 2025 and nearly $4,000 in April 2026, with each truck fill-up now $160-$300.
Beth Crise and Susan Cox urged food donations, volunteering, financial contributions, and gas-card donations to support drivers amid reduced delivery trips.

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