In recent weeks, Harvesters—The Community Food Network—has faced rising transportation costs due to the ongoing conflict involving the U.S. and Iran. Freight costs shot up by 33%. This increase means moving food across the country is getting harder and more expensive. For example, the cost to ship food from Arizona rose from $3,500 to $5,000. Similarly, shipping eggs from Missouri nearly doubled to $1,500.
The recent spike in diesel prices, which hit an average of $5.268 a gallon in Missouri, adds to the financial strain. Filling the organization’s trucks for local pickups and deliveries is now significantly pricier.
“We’re essentially a trucking company,” said Matt Hamer, Harvesters’ communications manager. “Most of what we do is transporting goods.”
Transportation costs aren’t the only obstacles Harvesters is facing. They’re also dealing with the aftermath of trade tariffs, fewer food donations, and cuts to federal food programs that previously supported food banks nationwide. Last year alone, Harvesters estimates that they lost around 3 million pounds of food due to these issues.
“None of us anticipated this sequence of events,” remarked Monic Houpe, the organization’s chief operating officer. Meanwhile, food pantries, shelters, and meal programs are seeing increasing demand as more people struggle to pay for groceries.
The rising fuel prices affect not only transportation but the entire food supply chain. Farmers are planting less due to both higher fuel and fertilizer costs. The increased expenses also mean that food manufacturers are producing less.
This pattern can influence prices in several ways. “For something simple like a can of ravioli, it’s likely that you’re paying 2 cents more now,” added Lupe Aragonez, Harvesters’ national food sourcing manager.
Recent data from Feeding America shows a growing issue with food insecurity. In Missouri, approximately 951,000 people—about 15% of the population—are food insecure. In Kansas, around 411,000 individuals, or 14% of the state’s residents, face similar challenges. The need is expected to grow as new regulations for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are set to tighten eligibility, potentially affecting over 2.7 million Americans.
Since new work requirements took effect, SNAP enrollment has begun to decline. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported participation dropped from 42.8 million in January 2025 to 39.2 million in December. Closer to home, Kansas and Missouri experienced a 7% and 5.5% drop, respectively.
Experts warn that legislative changes could worsen the situation. The recent approval of a farm bill could make it even harder for people to access food assistance. According to Gina Plata-Nino, director of SNAP policy and advocacy with the Food Research & Action Center, “Every meal a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine.”
In 2025, Harvesters distributed 60.3 million pounds of food, providing nearly 53 million meals across its service area in Kansas and Missouri. The organization is relying heavily on community support to navigate these challenges. They predict the need for donations will only increase as supply issues and economic pressures continue.
“If you can donate anything—no matter how small—please do,” emphasizes Houpe. “Every bit helps us support our community.”
Harvesters invites anyone struggling to put food on the table to reach out. “We’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance,” Hamer said.
For more insights on food insecurity in America, click here.
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