IAM Local 2018 members in Indianapolis have 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, volunteers from the union worked at the Gleaner Food Bank, packing over 6,800 frozen and refrigerated meals for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees and their families at Indianapolis International Airport.
Due to the shutdown, TSA workers were required to continue working without pay, which led many to experience food insecurity. IAM Local 2018 members responded by organizing assistance for these workers.
“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’s efforts were intended not only to provide immediate relief but also to reinforce connections within the community.
“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 participants included Gault, Business Representative Chet Robbins, and Executive Secretary Marsh Lewis. Gault expressed appreciation for those involved: “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.”
This outreach reflects the ongoing commitment of IAM Midwest Territory to support working people both professionally and within their communities.
