CANTON, Ohio — Friday marked the second paycheck that federal workers have missed as the government shutdown continues. Community leaders throughout the Akron-Canton area decided they wanted to help out workers of the Akron Canton Airport by opening up a food pantry at MAPS Air Museum. The museum is on the airport property and the pantry is open for any federal worker from the airport who would like to grab some food.
The Gessner Family Foundation provided 15,000$ for the 19,000 lbs. of food that the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank brought in.
Dan Flowers, the CEO of the food bank said he felt like the community had to stand behind their own people.
“They continue to show up because they do a vital job for all of us and I think it’s created a heightened sense of duty and obligation in return in the community,” he said.
For Bob Gessner, who is an avid traveler, it was a trip through the airport that reminded him just how many federal workers aren’t getting paid.
“I can’t fix the government shutdown. I can’t help 800,000 people, but I can do my little part here in my community,” said Gessner.
The food is all non-perishable items. But leaders are hoping it makes a big difference.
“When you receive that food, maybe you can free up some of your other resources so that you can keep your home, keep your heat from getting shut off,” said Flowers.
The pantry is open on Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s only open to federal workers from Akron-Canton Airport, but if you are a federal worker who may need assistance, give the Akron Canton Regional Food Bank a call at (330)-535-6900
