Free groceries, bonus for employees

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The staff of REV Federal Credit Union (formerly Heritage Trust) surprised employees and customers at IGA on Thursday April 23 with gift cards.

Heritage Trust recently rebranded to REV Federal Credit Union. As part of this initiative, they have launched “REV Cares,” a community outreach division of the credit union. In response to COVID-19 they have spanned across the Lowcountry to help support those most impacted by the pandemic. The REV Cares Grocery Giveback was an opportunity to bring attention to the essential work grocery stores are doing to support the community.

REV employees Dustin Haynes, Kelly Nix and Timmara McMurtry arranged the giveaway with Julie Pellum, IGA’s corporate deli and financial manager, and were on hand to distribute $100 in cash to each IGA employee on behalf of the credit union.

“As part of the REV Cares Grocery Giveback, we wanted to personally thank each employee by providing them with $100 and a thank you card for helping people affected by COVID-19,” said Haynes. “Today, we are giving a special thank you to employees of IGA on behalf of REV Federal Credit Union.”

But that wasn’t all.

From 11 a.m.-noon, shoppers in the store were also treated to free groceries, up to $100.

Owner Kenny Austin was grateful for the acknowledgment. “We have done our best to make certain that our shelves were stocked as much as possible. I contacted every warehouse I could so that I could get my hands on more products, and I even tried begging. I am proud that we have these many items, more than a lot of stores,” said Austin. “But it will still probably be another five or six more weeks before we have shelves full of bleach, paper towels, rice, hand sanitizer and toilet paper,” he added.

Employees were shocked and delighted by the gift. IGA’s deli workers Natasha King, Catherine Bailey, and Kelly Salsburry were thrilled and commented that they were in tears. “I could just cry,” said King.

From stockers to meat market personnel, to checkout cashiers, the store’s employees were each congratulated and thanked by REV staff. The meat market employees gave REV a resounding cheer in thanks for the cash.

The gifts were also a wonderful surprise to shoppers, who found themselves receiving free groceries.

Ernest Miller threw his hands up in joy when he heard that his groceries were free. “This is wonderful,” he said. “Thank you all very much!”

Louretha Bowman was also overwhelmed. “Oh, my gosh, I am so excited. I just can’t believe this,” said Bowman. “What a blessing! I am so grateful for REV and what they did for me today. I came on the right day, and I am not working right now so I need this.”

REV hopes to continue good relations with the community in the future.

“We just wanted to thank essential workers in the community and let everyone know that REV is always here for them and everyone,” said Haynes.