Airlines and other organizations at Green Bay airport come together during government shutdown

In response to the ongoing government shutdown, local airlines, vendors and airport partners at Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) are stepping up to support unpaid federal workers. Organizations such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, AvFlight, Jet Air, Hertz and Enterprise are just a few that are generously donating food and supplies. They are also asking the public to join the effort to help local, federally employed transportation safety and aviation professionals and their families.

“Our staff is like family,” said Delta Air Lines Station Manager Sandra Samuelson. “These are the people who make our communities and skies safe. At the end of the day, they must go home and provide for their families. Our goal is to make that as easy as possible during this time.”

A food and pantry drive is now open to collect non-perishable items and household essentials for federal workers. Requested items include:

• Canned goods (soups, beans, fruit, vegetables)
• Pasta, rice, cereal, peanut butter
• Shelf-stable snacks (granola bars)

Donations can be dropped off at the Delta ticket counter, with convenient parking available in front of the terminal entrances. The public is also encouraged to follow Delta’s social media channels for updates on specific needs, such as diapers and baby formula. Monetary donations are being accepted and will be used by Delta staff to purchase additional pantry items.

In addition to the food pantry, several airlines and their partners are hosting weekly luncheons during the workday for employees.

“Twice a week, we are all coming together to provide fresh meals for our workers,” said Samuelson. “All of the local vendors — from the commercial airlines to the fixed based operators and car rental agencies — are teaming up to bring some relief for those who continue to serve without pay.”

The local partners are committed to continuing these luncheons and collecting donations until the shutdown ends.