Coast Guard employees in Cape May going without pay amid government shutdown

U.S. Coast Guard civilian employees are still going without pay amid the government shutdown, even as TSA workers finally get paid due to an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

The longest government shutdown in U.S. history, which is only impacting the Department of Homeland Security, has caused many people who work at Cape May’s U.S.C.G. Training Center to cut back and accept help in order to obtain the essentials.

“We have seen a steady number of the civilians coming in,” said Nancy Hanslowe, of the Cape May Community Food Closet.

The food bank has seen a recent surge in need as the shutdown entered its 45th day on Monday.

“Friday was our distribution, and we had 40 additional families,” Hanslowe said. “These folks aren’t getting paid. They’re really struggling. They really need, they really need support from the community.”

Another resource for people struggling due to the shutdown is the Cape May County Coast Guard Community Foundation, which out a call for help in an email on Monday. The non-profit is encouraging businesses to offer free or discounted meals to those impacted, as well as discounts on services such as childcare and wellness.

“It’s just important to realize national security depends on these people, and we should pay it forward,” said Marla Brown.

The shutdown is also forcing the Coast Guard to not pay its bills due to businesses that provide them with goods and services.

“It’s causing severe financial hardships for businesses who provide us with goods and services,” said Vice Admiral Thomas Allan.

Also due to the shutdown, as well as heightened security measures at military facilities, an annual Coast Guard community festival at the training center also will not be held in mid-May as planned.

“It has a trickle down effect,” Hanslowe said.