PHOENIX — Local businesses have donated more than $118,000 to unpaid federal workers since Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport opened a donation center last week to support the employees during the partial government shutdown.
The airport opened the donation site at its “Compassion Corner” after Transportation Security Administration agents received paychecks of $0 on March 13 and invited travelers, employees, businesses and residents to contribute essential items.
According to Deputy Aviation Director Heather Shelbrack, on top of the funds donated so far there are a number of businesses coordinating sizable contributions, such as non-perishable items and gift cards. They include the Support Sky Harbor Coalition, McCarthy Building Companies, Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., GFT, APS, Wilson Electric, DWL Architects+, Austin Commercial Construction, AECOM, Barich Inc., Kind Hospitality and SSP America.
There have also been programs identified by the city of Phoenix, SRP, APS and Southwest Gas to defer interest and penalties on utility payments for TSA agents until their pay is restored.
“Phoenix is a city where neighbors look out for each other,” Mayor Kate Gallego said in a press release. “These federal employees have gone more than a month without pay and are working through one of the airport’s busiest travel times. Their dedication keeps our airport and our economy moving, and this community effort shows them that Phoenix cares about them.”
What other donations have been made to unpaid federal workers at Sky Harbor?
In addition, Sky Harbor has received almost 1,000 gift cards as well as nearly 800 non-perishable food and household items. The airport added that the gift cards are being given to TSA agents to help ease hardships caused by the prolonged shutdown.
“I am proud of how the community has stepped up to support our airport and the TSA officers who ensure we can fly safely every day,” Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington said. “Thank you to all who have donated and continue to donate on their behalf. In an already difficult time financially, these contributions can be vital in helping people.”
However, the airport said that there is still a high demand for gas and grocery gift cards, toilet paper, paper towels and pet food.
“I hope those who haven’t yet will also consider donating if they’re traveling through Sky Harbor or can make a special visit,” Washington said.
The airport is requesting:
- Non-perishable, prepackaged food
- Gift cards of $20 or less for gas and groceries from retailers such as Fry’s, Walmart, Costco and QuikTrip
- Hygiene items and baby essentials including diapers, wipes and formula
Officials emphasized they cannot accept cash or generic prepaid Visa, American Express or Mastercard gift cards.
Donations can be dropped off daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Compassion Corner, which is located presecurity in Terminal 4 near the elevator bank by the B Security Checkpoint.
“Our hardworking TSA agents show up every single day to keep the traveling public safe,” Arizona U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton said. “I’m fighting in Congress to make sure they get the pay they’ve earned and deserve — but in the meantime, the Phoenix community is stepping up in an extraordinary way.”
KTAR News 92.3 FM’s David Iversen contributed to this report.
