Donations sought to support local federal employees working without pay

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Over 225 federal employees including TSA agents, FAA staff, air traffic controllers and Customs and Border Protection officers, have been working without pay due to the ongoing government shutdown, according to a media release from the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce.

“These dedicated individuals continue to show up each day to keep our airport running safely and efficiently despite the financial strain,” the CoC says. “As a community, we have an opportunity to come together and provide meaningful support.”

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking contributions for these unpaid federal workers in the form of:

• Gas or Uber gift cards
• Boxed lunches or meal vouchers
• Monetary donations
• Discounts or special offers (for example, 0% interest personal loans from banks)

The CoC asks that, if any organization or person can contribute in any way, whether through goods, services, or financial support, to contact Erica Backus at EBackus@SavannahChamber.com.

The United Way is working to coordinate the best process for collecting and distributing these items, the release states, and it will follow up with collection logistics and distribution plans as soon as they are finalized.

“Thank you for your compassion and commitment to our community,” the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce writes. “Together, we can show our appreciation and support for those who continue serving even through difficult times.”