Redstone surprises residents with free gas and groceries

Redstone Federal Credit Union’s Acts of Brightness crew, known for their signature powder-blue shirts, has helped more than 500 families with gas, groceries, and utility bills during a time when many families are feeling financially stressed.

Last Tuesday, the Brightness Crew visited the Food City supermarket on Governors Drive  and paid for groceries for employees and shoppers. 

Since January, Redstone has taken the initiative across North Alabama and Middle Tennessee, helping residents pay for basic needs while offering encouragement through unexpected acts of generosity. The initiative is part of the credit union’s 75th anniversary celebration.

Gabriel Barker, a graduate student at Alabama A&M University, said the experience came as a surprise. “We came in to buy one thing and left with a hundred, maybe more. We walked up, and a guy said, ‘It’s your lucky day. We’re buying your groceries today,’” Barker said. “I didn’t think it was real. God is good. I grabbed enough stuff to cook and share with the homeless. As nice as it is to receive a blessing, it’s good to give one back.”

Redstone employees have supported residents in Athens, Cullman, Madison, Huntsville,  Scottsboro, Smyrna, TN and Murfreesboro, TN, by turning routine errands into moments of relief for local families. The organization has hosted eight events so far, helping more than 500 families and providing more than $100,000 in direct support, with additional events planned through the end of the year.

Food City employees also had an opportunity to shop during the event. As they filled their baskets, several described the moment as a needed relief. “I appreciate y’all, and I’m sure everybody else does too because we are all struggling. Rent has gone up, but pay hasn’t gone up. So you’ve got to scrimp where you shouldn’t have to,” one employee said.

Find more information at: redfcu.org/acts-of-brightness
Follow @redstonefcu on social media for updates on upcoming Acts of Brightness events.


Brightness Crew member and Food City employee


Halee Hampton & Gabriel Barker

About Redstone Federal Credit Union
Celebrating 75 years, Redstone Federal Credit Union is dedicated to improving the financial well-being of its members and communities and helping them achieve their financial dreams. With more than $8.4 billion in assets, Redstone is one of the largest federal credit unions in the nation. Visit www.redfcu.org