On Tuesday, Summer Kerksick stood in line for two hours at a food bank event dedicated to supporting federal workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown. As a federal contractor and market research analyst with the Rural Export Center in the US Department of Commerce, Kerksick shared her struggles, stating, “With my rent due next week, I can take anything I can get.” She emphasized the importance of the free groceries, noting, “I haven’t gotten a paycheck this month, so the free groceries are very important, very helpful.”
The event was organized by a local DC food bank in collaboration with a religious group, aiming to assist those who are facing financial difficulties due to the shutdown. “I’ve got to save every dime at this point,” Kerksick added, highlighting the urgency of her situation amidst the ongoing crisis.
Kerksick is one of approximately 1.4 million federal employees who have been furloughed or are currently working without pay. The stalemate in Congress has left many workers in financial uncertainty, as lawmakers have yet to reach a resolution to address the pay for federal employees. In an attempt to address the situation, GOP Senator Ron Johnson introduced a bill that would provide pay only to those required to work during the shutdown. In contrast, Democrats are advocating for all federal workers to receive their salaries.
The Capital Area Food Bank, which partnered with No Limits Outreach Ministries to host the event in Landover, Maryland, reported serving over 370 households—more than double the anticipated number of federal workers. To receive food, federal employees were required to present their work ID. The overwhelming turnout took many organizers by surprise. “I’m overwhelmed by the line,” said Oliver Carter, the pastor at No Limits Outreach Ministries and organizer of the event. “I didn’t think we were going to have this many federal employees.”
Pamelia Carter, the executive director of No Limits Outreach Ministries and Oliver's wife, has worked for 38 years at the Department of Agriculture and has experienced several government shutdowns. “I’ve run into quite a few coworkers here,” she mentioned, adding that the event was “different” from the regular food outreach programs they conduct every Friday. “There are at least 2 to 300 people in this line that we’re servicing today, federal employees. It’s mind-boggling.”
Among those waiting for assistance was Rolanda Williams, who works at the Social Security Administration. She expressed her disbelief at needing to rely on a food bank, stating, “You always thought that getting a government job, you know, a federal job, that that’s security, and it’s not.” Initially hesitant to accept help, Williams reflected on her changing circumstances, saying, “At first, I was like, well I’d rather let people that have kids, you know, go to the food banks so that everyone could have food because I was okay. But now … it’s like I need to stand in line too.”
This food bank event highlights the challenges faced by federal employees during the government shutdown and showcases the critical role of community support in times of hardship. With the ongoing uncertainty, many are finding solace in the assistance provided by local organizations, emphasizing the importance of coming together during difficult times.
