ORLANDO, Fla. – Last month, the Department of Homeland Security experienced a funding lapse as legislators clashed over federal immigration enforcement policies. This situation has resulted in numerous federal employees, particularly those working at airports, performing their duties without receiving pay.

To support Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and other affected federal workers during this challenging period, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority has initiated a food drive. The drive seeks to gather nonperishable food items, cleaning and laundry essentials, diapers, pet supplies, and $10 gift cards for fuel or groceries.

Every day, TSA agents are responsible for screening countless travelers, while air traffic controllers ensure the smooth operation of flights, underscoring the crucial role these unpaid federal employees play. Travelers have emphasized the importance of supporting these workers during the funding gap.

“It’s just terrible for them,” remarked traveler Lauralai Wild. “I hope this issue is resolved soon so they can receive the pay they rightly deserve for their hard work.”

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One traveler proposed finding a long-term solution to prevent air travel employees from working without pay during future funding impasses.

“I feel [air travel] is something that’s federally authorized. Anything that’s federally authorized, they should pay for. So that’s something that I think there should be a fund set away for people who are working,” Justin Brown said. “It makes me sad. Anybody that’s working I feel like should get paid.”

If you’d like to donate, please bring your contributions to the following locations:

• Orlando International Airport (Terminal C Departures Curb): From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, March 6, through Monday, March 9, and additional days as needed

• Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), 465 Rickenbacker Drive, Orlando: From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday until further notice

Passengers may drop off items at the Information booths, located on the Departures level at Terminals A, B and C.

GOAA encourages passengers to use the FlyMCO website or Orlando MCO app to stay up to date on airport operations during this time.