Installation Represents 500 Fans And Food Security

Jill Sheridan

A new exhibit kicks off the Indy 500 weekend and supports food security in Indianapolis.

Five hundred green flags with inspirational messages of hope dot the campus of the White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis.

Indianapolis 500 driver Marco Andretti said the installation also represents a $20,000 donation to Gleaners Food Bank from Mountain Dew.

“The flags behind me not only represent the return of the Indy 500 and the start of the race weekend, but also to celebrate the resilience of the people of Indianapolis,” Andretti said.

During the pandemic, 40 percent of Gleaners clients sought food for the first time.

Indianapolis Deputy Mayor for Neighborhood Engagement Judith Thomas said the work towards food security continues.

“What’s next and where do we really need to work with everyone to make sure our citizens really have all that they need,” Thomas said.

The fan messages that are printed on the flags will be on display through the race weekend.

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