Wings Credit Union Commits $275,000 to VEAP, the Twin Cities Largest Food Pantry

Apple Valley, Minn. – Wings Credit Union announced today a $275,000, three-year commitment to VEAP, the largest food pantry in Minnesota, serving residents of Hennepin County. The support will help VEAP provide critical food and resources to thousands of families facing food insecurity.

The need for food assistance in Minnesota is at an all-time high. In 2024, Minnesotans made nearly 9 million visits to food shelves, representing a 1.4 million-trip increase from the previous year. Demand for food support has surged from pre-pandemic levels, driven by rising food prices and decreased SNAP benefits. Hunger now affects communities across the state, from urban neighborhoods to rural towns, and food shelves have been forced to expand services to meet this demand.

This gift reflects one of the core pillars of the Wings Credit Union Foundation and its mission to support our communities in times of need. Through the Nutritional Needs focus area, the Foundation partners with local organizations to help ensure residents have access to healthy food.

“This commitment is an important part of who Wings is,” said John Wagner,Senior VP and Chief Member Experience Officer at Wings Financial Credit Union. “As a financial cooperative, our mission goes beyond banking, as we exist to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Supporting VEAP is just one more way we can strengthen our communities and help ensure our neighbors have the resources they need.”

This year marks the first time Wings has made such a significant multi-year community commitment, a step made possible in part by its recent merger announcement with Ent Credit Union, based in Colorado. Ent has made a similar community investment in its region, reflecting the shared values of both organizations.

“One of the real benefits of the merger is that together, we can expand the impact of our community support,” Wagner added. “We’re proud to partner with VEAP here in Minnesota and to continue building a strong tradition of giving in the communities we serve.”

VEAP (Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People) has been serving local residents since 1974 with access to healthy food, housing assistance, transportation, and supportive services.

“Wings’ generous commitment comes at a crucial time, as more families than ever are turning to VEAP for help,” said Kari Thomspon, President and CEO. “With this support, we can continue to provide healthy food and essential resources to our neighbors, helping them build stability and hope for the future.”

About Wings Credit Union
Wings Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the United States, with more than $10 billion in assets and over 360,000 members. Founded in 1938, Wings provides financial services that help members thrive, with a strong focus on community support through the Wings Foundation.

About VEAP
VEAP (Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People) is a non-profit serving residents of Hennepin County in Minnesota. VEAP provides access to healthy food, housing stability, and supportive services for individuals and families in need. For more information, visit www.veap.org.