Savannah groups raise money to help TSA workers as shutdown paychecks missed again

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - TSA employees and other federal workers at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport are nearing another payday they won’t receive because of the partial government shutdown.

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and the Savannah Economic Development Authority, in partnership with the United Way of the Coastal Empire are raising money to help those workers cover basic needs until federal funding is restored.

City officials estimate there are more than 200 federal workers at the airport, handling duties from screening bags to helping keep flights operating on schedule. Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bert Brantley said those workers are critical to the region.

“It’s frustrating for us because we know how critical they are to the running of our port, running of our airport, and just making sure keeps churning,” Brantley said.

Travel impacts nationwide

Across the country, travelers have seen delays and cancellations — caused by a mix of severe weather and staffing strain during the shutdown. While major airports such as Atlanta and New Orleans have reported increased call-outs and resignations among TSA agents, Savannah’s airport saw only a handful of delays or cancellations.

Traveler Johnnye Foss, flying from Michigan, said her experience was relatively smooth.

“I got there three hours early just to play it safe, got through with no problem, and my flight was only delayed a couple of minutes due to medical problems. I had no issues,” Foss said.

Gift card assistance program returns

To support local TSA workers, the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and the Savannah Economic Development Authority, in partnership with the United Way of the Coastal Empire, are working to assist impacted federal workers through a gift card assistance program. The program is intended to help with essentials like food, gas, and prescription costs.

“We just want to make sure their basic needs as they are waiting for this thing to end are met,” Brantley said.

Brantley also encouraged travelers to plan ahead and be patient with airport staff.

“Plan for some extra time and just show up with a smile and a little bit of grace,” he said.

Organizers say support has already come in from the Town of Hilton Head and other groups. Click here for the link to donate and learn more.