By Sarah Richardson
A partial government shutdown has been in effect since Feb. 14, disrupting several federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, U.S. Secret Service, and ICE. As the shutdown continues, Ha Nguyen McNeill, the senior official performing the duties of TSA administrator, said that “around 95%, or more than 61,000, of TSA employees are deemed essential and must continue working to protect the traveling public during a shutdown, while not getting paid.”
Locally, the shutdown is affecting TSA officers at Greenbrier Valley Airport. In a social media post last week, airport officials said their TSA team remains fully staffed with eight employees and operations are continuing as normal despite the circumstances.
“We are especially grateful for their dedication as they continue to serve our community each day,” the airport stated. “Many have asked how they can support these officers during this time. Donations for a TSA Support Collection are greatly appreciated and help support local officers and their families.”
Following the post, community members stepped forward with donations, including grocery and gas gift cards, nonperishable food, pantry staples, household essentials, and pet food.
Airport Director Martha Livesay expressed appreciation for the generosity shown to local TSA workers.
“I would just like to extend my deepest gratitude to our community for the tremendous support given to our TSA workers,” Livesay said. “I commend each of our TSA workers for their true dedication to their airport and the professionalism they continue to abide by through this difficult and challenging time. The items donated by the wonderful people in our community have been greatly appreciated and have helped our TSA workers. They tell me every day how much it has helped.”
A local TSA officer echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community support during uncertain times.
“From the TSA at LWB, we are very grateful for the community’s outpouring of support,” the employee said. “You are very much appreciated in this hard time.”
The airport also highlighted the effort in a recent post, calling the response “incredible” and noting that donations continue to come in for TSA employees and their families. Items collected range from groceries to household essentials, helping offset the financial strain caused by missed paychecks.
Donations that are still being accepted include: nonperishable food (canned goods, pasta, snacks, etc.); hygiene products (toiletries and personal care items); and pet supplies. Gift cards are allowed with a few guidelines: they must be for amounts that are $20 or less, store-specific cards only (grocery or gas preferred), and no prepaid debit/credit-style cards. Federal regulations prohibit TSA officers from accepting cash or cash equivalent donations.
Donations are accepted daily at the Greenbrier Valley Airport FBO. Please call 304-645-3961 ext 0 if you need assistance. Organizations interested in donating meals can contact the airport at 304-645-3961, ext. 221, 223, or 226.
“We are proud to be part of such a strong and caring community,” the airport shared. “Thank you for showing up, giving back, and supporting those who help keep our airport running safely every day.”
To stay up-to-date with our local airport, follow “Greenbrier Valley Airport” on Facebook or visit www.mylwb.com.
