Empowering Gleaners Food Bank Through Technology: A Paperless Transformation

  • Emily Krawzak
  • March 18, 2025

At Counterpart, we believe in leveraging technology to create lasting impact. Our partnership with Gleaners Food Bank is a testament to this philosophy. Gleaners has taken a significant step forward by adopting a new technology platform that has streamlined operations and enhanced the way they serve their neighbors. This digital transformation has enabled them to operate more efficiently, provide better service, and expand their programming.

A Digital Leap Toward Efficiency

Going paperless isn’t just about reducing paperwork—it’s about creating opportunities for greater impact. Since launching their new platform, Gleaners has significantly improved their ability to fulfill food distributions within a shorter timeframe. The efficiency gains are tangible: they are now serving more individuals than ever before, ensuring that food reaches those in need faster and with less waste.

The usability of the new platform has been a game-changer. Compared to the old system, the new technology is more user-friendly, making it easier for staff and volunteers to manage food distributions. More importantly, the system empowers neighbors by allowing them to choose the food they want and need, fostering a more dignified experience. This level of accessibility and personalization was previously unattainable without the proper technological foundation.

Innovation That Drives Impact

The launch of this platform has not only transformed operations but has also placed Gleaners at the forefront of innovation in their sector. Their recognition as a finalist for the prestigious TechPoint Mira Awards underscores the groundbreaking nature of this work. A food bank being honored with a tech award is a remarkable achievement reinforcing that technology isn’t just for traditional businesses. It’s a powerful tool for nonprofits and organizations making a difference in their communities.

More Than Just Software: A True Partnership

At Counterpart, we pride ourselves on being more than software developers—we are true partners in transformation. Our collaboration with Gleaners extended beyond coding and platform development. We participated in simulations, helped with process design and engineering, and worked hand in hand with their team to ensure the technology was not just a tool, but an integral part of their operational strategy.

One of the key factors in Gleaners’ decision to work with Counterpart was our local presence and commitment to customer service. Being deeply embedded in the community meant we understood their needs on a fundamental level. Erin Cartwright, a key leader at Gleaners, put it best: “It feels truly like a partnership—you are a counterpart.” This partnership-driven approach ensured that neighbors were always the top priority when designing the platform.

Creating New Opportunities

Beyond improving efficiency, the new technology has enabled Gleaners to explore opportunities they have long aspired to pursue. By digitizing operations, they can now analyze data to optimize food distribution, reduce waste, and improve service delivery. This transformation is not just about software—it’s about rethinking how operations run to better serve the community.

Looking Ahead

Gleaners’ journey is proof that the right technology can be a catalyst for meaningful change. Their ability to serve more neighbors with dignity, reduce operational inefficiencies, and embrace innovation highlights what’s possible when organizations commit to transformation. Counterpart is proud to have played a role in this evolution, and we’re excited to continue helping mission-driven organizations achieve their goals through technology.

For those who support Gleaners—whether donors, partners, or advocates—this transformation represents a more effective, impactful way to fight food insecurity. After just a year of development and implementation, we’re excited to share the impact we’ll have with Gleaners in the years ahead.

If your organization is ready to embrace innovation and efficiency, let’s talk. Together, we can build solutions that don’t just solve immediate challenges but create long-term opportunities for success.