Linda Heery’s passion for serving others is deeply personal.
“Divorce left my mom with four young children,” she said. “Until she found a job, we had food thanks to family, food stamps, and the school lunch and food drive program. Volunteering to help others in similar situations seemed like a natural path for me.”
As the director of Gleaners Food Bank in Cranberry Township, Heery and a team of 16 dedicated volunteers ensure that local families facing food insecurity can access the essentials they need. The food bank, which started roughly 25 years ago, currently serves 125+ clients, with 85 to 95 Cranberry Township families receiving food monthly. For many, this support bridges the gap between paychecks, Social Security checks, or government assistance. The income qualifications mirror those of Pennsylvania’s SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), allowing families to receive food without duplicating benefits.
“The food provided can help families get through the month before receiving their benefits from SNAP,” said Heery. “It can also mean that a family or single person does not need to use SNAP, or they do not need to visit our food bank every month. It is a struggle for many to make it through the month without both state programs.”
The rising cost of food has made Gleaners even more essential, and Heery said the community's support has been invaluable.
“I know from many comments through the years that this program has made a big difference in the lives of many,” she said. “From suddenly single parents needing to find a job, to seniors struggling with the cost of medical care and prescription costs to job loss. Gleaners and our supporters have made a difference to many over the years.”
Some of those supporters include a core group of dedicated volunteers. Some, like Chrissy Eaton and Paula Sandherr, have been involved since 2000, while Heery herself joined in 2002. Most have been a part of the organization for at least 15 years. Volunteers commit to lifting heavy cases and bags, working in all types of weather, and getting to know clients personally.
“We know our clients by name,” said Heery. “It is my good fortune to volunteer with this amazing group of friends.”
Additional support comes from Saint Ferdinand Church (now part of Divine Grace Parish), which provides space and staffing. At the same time, local businesses, schools, sports teams, scout troops, civic organizations, and residents contribute through food drives and monetary donations.
“We are very fortunate and blessed with the scope of support,” said Heery.
The name “Gleaners” carries a special meaning. “’ To glean’ means to gather bit by bit,” Heery explains. “And this is what happens each month at Gleaners Food Bank. Our shelves fill up bit by bit thanks to the support of so many.”
At Gleaners, every bit—every donation, volunteer, and act of kindness—adds to something life-changing.