Feeding San Diego supports TSA agents during government shutdown

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Feeding San Diego is stepping up to help Transportation Security Administration agents impacted by the partial government shutdown, as many workers go weeks without pay.

The disruption comes just months after the nation’s longest shutdown last fall, leaving federal employees facing financial strain once again.

“We were feeding 155,000 households in May. Now we are upwards of 220,000 a month,” said Feeding San Diego CEO Bob Kamensky.

In less than a year, the nonprofit has seen a sharp increase in demand for food assistance across San Diego County.

As long lines continue to form at airports nationwide, TSA agents are also lining up at food distributions after going more than a month without pay.

“We typically bring between three to four different types of fresh produce, and it will be about four pounds of each,” Kamensky said.

In addition to fresh produce, the organization distributes dry goods and protein to help create complete meals.

At the request of TSA and airport leadership, Feeding San Diego held a distribution event for about 400 employees last week and is preparing to host another this week. The nonprofit also provided support during the previous shutdown while continuing to serve its regular clients.

“These are not all unsheltered or unemployed people. The vast majority of them have jobs,” Kamensky said. “They can’t afford the cost differential between what it costs to live in San Diego and the rising cost of food.”

The union representing TSA agents, the American Federation of Government Employees, said it is also working to support members during the shutdown.

“AFGE 1260 has been working hard to support its members. We have provided over $5,000 in gas cards and Costco food cards to our membership. Additionally, we have collaborated with Partnership for a Better San Diego to establish food pantries for the officers. We will continue to support our membership and wish for a timely conclusion to this shutdown,” the union said in a statement.

As demand continues to grow, Feeding San Diego said community support remains essential.

“We are constantly looking for private donors to continue to support Feeding San Diego’s efforts, as more people fall out of that federal safety net and into ours,” Kamensky said.

The organization is planning another mobile pantry-style distribution later this week, bringing food directly to TSA agents at the airport.