Making a difference

The AFSCME Local 46 Executive Board and union members at East Moline Correctional Center set out to make a positive difference in the local community during the coronavirus pandemic by donating directly to area food banks and pantries.

The union selected four locations: Colona Township Food Pantry, Colona; Christ United Methodist Church Food Bank, East Moline; Christ United Methodist Church Food Bank, Silvis; and St. John’s Lutheran Church Food Bank, East Moline.

“Each food bank received a $1,500 donation, a $6,000 community investment that will help our neighbors directly as they get back on their feet during this time of need, and relieve the stress that comes with worrying  about feeding themselves and their families,” said Local 46 President Cody Dornes. “We want to make sure the community knows we're here for them.”

The donations were a very welcome surprise to the organizations who are seeing higher demand from the community.

“The looks on the volunteers’ faces as we gave them a check they didn't see coming showed us how much they appreciate the extra support right now,” said Local 46 Vice President Mark Bramm.

In November, the union purchased 120 coats, hats and gloves for students at East Moline School District #37.

“We hope all AFSCME local unions will give back as they can,” Dornes said. “Let’s let our local communities know that AFSCME is here to help.”

Pictured from left to right: Mel Straub, Local 46 E-Board Member, Barb Folkers, Local 46 Recording Secretary, Chance Rodman, Local 46 E-Board Member, Mark Bramm, Local 46 Vice President, Janice Miller, Colona Food Pantry Director, and Cody Dornes, Local 46 President.