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Ford Airport travelers can donate spare coins, ‘For GRReat Change’ to help the homeless

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(L-R) Gordon Oosting from Mel Trotter Ministries joins Airport Board Members Floyd Wilson, Jr., Dan Koorndyk, GFIAA CEO Jim Gill, Airport Board Members Roger Morgan and Birgit Klohs, and Lake Michigan Credit Union’s Don Bratt in donating coins for the ‘For GRReat Change’ program. (Photo supplied)

By Tara Hernandez, Gerald R. Ford International Airport

 

Loose change in your pockets now has a home, thanks to new donation coin containers at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA). The coin containers are in place at both the standard screening line and the TSA Pre-Check line, and airport board members were among the first to drop in coins this morning as a part of the airport’s new program, “For GRReat Change”.

 

GFIA installed the new coin containers in an effort to support a local West Michigan charity, while at the same time expediting the security screening process. All donations will go to Mel Trotter Ministries with donations being matched by Lake Michigan Credit Union.

 

“We know many travelers come to the security checkpoint with change in their pockets. Normally, they would empty their pockets and place it in a bowl before going through security, but now they can drop it before they go through security and donate to a good cause,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “This not only expedites the security lines because it is one less item to screen, but it goes toward helping to end homelessness in West Michigan. We are proud to partner with Mel Trotter Ministries and Lake Michigan Credit Union to give back to our community.”

 

GFIA is unveiling the new containers before a busy fall schedule for the airport when seasonal flights gear up, which is also a crucial time for Mel Trotter Ministries prior to the holidays.

 

“We are always exploring unique ways to partner with individuals and organizations in West Michigan and this coin container project is another example of how together we can make a greater impact,” said Abbey Sladick, VP of Communication at Mel Trotter Ministries.

 

“We are grateful to the generous passengers, to the airport and to LMCU for their commitment to solving a serious community issue that affects thousands of our neighbors every year.”

 

“Lake Michigan Credit Union is thrilled to be a part of this creative way to make a difference benefitting Mel Trotter Ministries at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport,” said Lake Michigan Credit Union SVP of Marketing Don Bratt. “We are excited to double the impact that passengers can make through the donation of their change.”