In response to the US government shutdown, which has been ongoing for around three weeks now, the Detroit Metro Airport has decided to start a program to support its federal workers.
Due to the federal government currently being shut down over funding decisions, thousands of federal workers have been furloughed, others have been laid off, and essential workers are required to keep working despite no pay in some cases.
To support federal workers who are being impacted by the shutdown, the Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) has decided to partner with restaurants at Detroit Metro Airport and start a free food program.
The program, called the Federal Employee Meal Program, started yesterday and will allow federal employees working at partnered airports to receive $20 worth of free food and beverages per day. The program is expected to last until the end of the year, December 31st, or when the federal shutdown comes to a close, whichever date comes first.
WCAA CEO Chad Newton said in a formal statement, “Although they are not being paid, our federal partners continue to stand beside us each day, committed to safety,” he continues. “DTW’s concessionaires and the Airport Authority are pleased to be able to offer a small token of our appreciation.”
The WCAA has had a history of programs such as this, providing a similar program in 2019 during the federal shutdown of that year.
It is nice to see that, despite the unfortunate circumstances, individuals and organizations are still willing to lend out aid to those they can help, even if they cannot solve the root issue.
