As the government shutdown continues, federal workers at Portland International Airport (PDX) are facing increasing financial strain. In response, the Port of Portland has established two donation bins at the airport to collect contributions for air traffic controllers and TSA agents who have gone nearly a month without pay.
The donation initiative aims to provide some relief to those affected by the shutdown. Many federal employees, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, have shown remarkable dedication by continuing to work despite the lack of compensation. Local resident Jeff Bryan expressed his concern, stating, “Most people I think in this country are only a paycheck or two away from being homeless themselves, and then, here’s people going through a month without pay and still showing up to work.”
Passenger Megan Foley, who was at the airport to pick up her mother, noted the importance of supporting these workers. “I said, ‘We should have brought a card for them; I wonder how we could do that,’ and she told me, ‘Put it in the mail,’” Foley remarked. “I said, ‘Of course,’ but we didn’t know there were donation bins, so that’s nice to see.”
Donation Details and Community Response
The donation bins are conveniently placed pre-security near the stadium stairs in the new main terminal. They accept a variety of items to assist those affected by the shutdown. Bryan emphasized the significance of these efforts, stating, “This is a hard time to go without. It is very important that people do donate to these things, and I’m glad they exist.”
In addition to local support, some cities are exploring alternative solutions. For example, the city of Denver has proposed compensating its air traffic controllers directly during the shutdown. However, a spokesperson for the Port of Portland clarified that there is “no existing mechanism” for them to do the same for federal employees at PDX.
Travelers have voiced concerns regarding safety as air traffic controllers work overtime without pay. Laurie Foley, another traveler, noted, “They’ve been working overtime with no pay, and we really rely on them for safety.” In light of these safety issues, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced earlier this week a reduction of 10% of flight traffic at the nation’s busiest airports, including PDX. “We’re trying to prevent the pressure that we now see building in the system,” Duffy explained.
Looking Ahead: Concerns Over Holiday Travel
As the shutdown continues, there are growing worries about its impact on holiday travel. Megan Foley expressed hope that travelers will reach their destinations in time for the holidays, while also hoping that federal workers receive the pay they deserve. “Hopefully, everyone can get where they need to be for the holidays, but hopefully, they get paid to help us get there,” Foley added.
The ongoing support from the community, demonstrated through the donation bins, highlights the solidarity among Portlanders during this challenging time. As federal workers navigate the challenges posed by the shutdown, local initiatives aim to provide essential assistance and encouragement.
