Gloria Shields serves as the Mississippi Coordinator for The Benefit Bank software program at the Children’s Defense Fund-Southern Regional Office in Jackson, MS and has been with the organization since 2006.  The Benefit Bank is an internet-based software program designed to help low- and moderate-income households maximize their tax credits and their entitlement to an array of public benefits.  The Benefit Bank (TBB) offers counselor-assisted services through a network of social services agencies, community-based organizations, faith communities and other organizations that agree to offer the service free of charge to low/moderate-income individuals and families

Gloria also supports the Southern Rural Black Women’s Initiative and other advocacy initiatives that address the needs of children, and families, paying particular interest to families and youth living in poverty. 

Prior to joining the Children’s Defense Fund-Southern Regional Office, Gloria was the Parent Involvement-Volunteer Coordinator for Community Development Institute formerly known as Yazoo Community Action, Inc. Head Start in Yazoo City, MS, which served low to moderate-income families.

Gloria attends Jackson State University in Jackson. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Science Degree in General Interdisciplinary Studies.