Nebraska fuel retailers and drivers helped to raise more than $15,000 in October as part of Fuel the Cure 2022, a campaign that also educates the public about healthier fuel options.

During October, when drivers chose higher blends of ethanol fuel like E15, E30 and E85 at participating retail locations, gas stations donated 3 cents for each gallon sold toward cancer research. Ethanol is a natural, plant-based octane booster used to displace some chemicals in gasoline which have been linked to cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues. Ethanol producers, including Siouxland Ethanol in Jackson and E-Energy in Adams, also donated to the cause. This year, Fuel the Cure raised $15,662.99 with donations going to the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center in Omaha and Nebraska’s American Cancer Society.

Over the past five years, retailers participating in the promotion have helped raise more than $45,000 for cancer research, according to Jessica Sodeke, communications and outreach manager for the Nebraska Ethanol Board. “We commend these retailers for making higher ethanol blends available and giving consumers a choice in the effort to reduce greenhouse gas pollution. Supporting Fuel the Cure is a step beyond, because the funds are directly impacting the lives of Nebraskans.”

The Nebraska Ethanol Board, Nebraska Corn Board, and Renewable Fuels Nebraska are already preparing for Fuel the Cure 2023 and encouraging Nebraska fuel retailers who sell higher ethanol blends to reach out for information about participating. Donations to the Buffett Cancer Center or American Cancer Society are also accepted from others interested in supporting this cause, including cancer organizations and ethanol facilities. Fuel the Cure sponsors the Lincoln Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk as well. Contact Jessica Sodeke for more information at Jessica.sodeke@nebraska.gov.