“We can help. So, that’s what we’re doing. It’s really that simple,” said Erik Miner. “It’s neighbors caring for neighbors. And, really, for our team, it’s nothing new.”
Miner, the Indianapolis market executive for Regions Bank, has long been part of the bank’s team stepping up to support Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, a Feeding America affiliate and nearly 20-year Regions Bank community partner.
Food insecurity is a year-round issue. Often, the needs grow larger as we approach the holidays. And with many families, including those of federal workers, facing additional uncertainty right now, Gleaners reached out to federal agencies to see how the nonprofit could help their employees in Indiana.
“A lot of people are still living paycheck to paycheck, and this work stoppage is a real blow to them,” said Fred Glass, President and CEO of Gleaners.
But the actions they’re taking can help keep food on the table, quite literally.
Gleaners quickly set up an order system providing 225 Indianapolis International Airport Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees with the ability to order milk, eggs, protein, fresh produce and healthy dry goods for curbside pick-up.
“There’s never a good time to wonder whether you’ll still be able to meet your family’s need for nourishment,” Glass added. “Our role at Gleaners is to serve. And we appreciate every donation and every volunteer hour that helps us do just that. Our goal is to help see people through whatever season they are facing and into better days ahead.”
To help do their part, 20-plus Regions Bank associates in Indianapolis rolled up their sleeves and filled grocery bags for distribution and guided Gleaners clients through the nonprofit’s warehouse drive-through at Indiana’s largest food pantry.
“Volunteering at Gleaners offered an opportunity to not only serve our community but also support an organization that’s gone above and beyond in proactively extending a helping hand for 45 years,” added Miner. “It allowed our team members to do something helping hundreds of people, including some turning to food banks for the first time.”
In 2024 alone, Gleaners distributed 97 million meals and served approximately 3,000 households each week through pantries across its 21-county service area.
Those numbers may grow in 2025. And challenges persist in terms of adequate funding to make sure everyone turning to Gleaners can get what they need.
But it’s the innovative spirit of people like Fred Glass that offers hope of additional solutions, as well. He’s resolved to do everything he can to help stem the tide.
“Gleaners will redouble its efforts to provide nutritious food to Hoosiers who are hurting,” he said. “That’s the bottom line.”
Locate the Feeding America food bank in your area, and discover how you can help.