IAM Local 2018 in Indianapolis provided support to federal workers affected by the recent government shutdown. As part of the IAM Midwest Territory’s H.E.L.P.S. program, union volunteers spent a day at Gleaner Food Bank preparing over 6,800 frozen and refrigerated meals for TSA workers and their families at Indianapolis International Airport.
During the shutdown, TSA employees were required to work without pay, leading many to experience food insecurity. Members of IAM Local 2018 responded by organizing efforts to ensure these families received necessary assistance.
“Our members didn’t think twice,” said IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli. “When working families in our communities struggle, we stand with them. TSA employees keep our airports safe every single day and supporting them in difficult times is simply the right thing to do.”
The initiative highlighted the role of union solidarity beyond workplace concerns and strengthened community ties.
“Seeing our members shoulder to shoulder – sorting food, packing thousands of pounds of groceries for local TSA families – showed once again that solidarity isn’t just a word, it’s an action,” said IAM Local 2018 Directing Business Representative David Gault. “The gratitude from the families we served made the day unforgettable.”
The effort was led by IAM Local 2018 members including Gault, Business Representative Chet Robbins, and Executive Secretary Marsh Lewis.
“I want to thank the Gleaner Food Bank team for welcoming us and guiding this work, and to our IAM Local 2018 Executive Committee and community partners whose support makes these events possible,” Gault added.
This outreach is part of IAM Midwest Territory’s ongoing commitment to supporting working people both in their workplaces and within their communities.
