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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — As of Monday, government employees will officially have missed a full paycheck due to the ongoing government shutdown. To address the anticipated needs, Feeding Tampa Bay is stepping up to provide support.

“People are often affected unexpectedly and may not have the means to cope easily, so we are ensuring that federal employees, who are now required to work without pay, have access to necessary resources,” stated Thomas Mantz, president of Feeding Tampa Bay.

In addition to providing fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy options, Mantz explains that they have different systems set up to support these employees in more ways than are immediately visible.

“We’re collaborating with various partners to offer additional assistance,” he mentioned. “This includes support with utilities, mental health services, and other partners prepared to help address the challenges these individuals might face.”

Mantz highlighted that they’ve customized their outreach efforts to fit the unique situation, ready to handle an increase in community members seeking help, many of whom might be doing so for the first time.

“When you’re caught off guard by unexpected circumstances and are unsure of where to turn, our main challenge is to ensure these individuals know there’s support available,” Mantz emphasized.

He said they’ve been working for nearly a month to prepare for the impact of Monday, which is when these new services for furloughed government workers go live.

Click here for their government shutdown support page.