IAM Local 2018 members in Indianapolis have provided support to federal workers affected by the recent government shutdown. Through the IAM Midwest Territory’s H.E.L.P.S. program, volunteers spent a day at Gleaner Food Bank packing over 6,800 frozen and refrigerated meals for TSA employees and their families at Indianapolis International Airport.
TSA workers were required to continue working without pay during the shutdown, leading many to face food insecurity. In response, IAM Local 2018 members organized this effort to help those impacted.
“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 union emphasized that its solidarity extends beyond workplace issues into broader community support.
“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.”
Key organizers included 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 initiative highlights the ongoing commitment of IAM Midwest Territory to supporting working people both professionally and within their communities.
