Local Businesses Provide Generous Support to Federal Employees

Phoenix Sky Harbor’s donation drive continues

PHOENIX – As the partial government shutdown continues to place thousands of essential workers under significant financial strain, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is continuing its efforts to support federal frontline employees who are working without pay.

Last week, Phoenix Sky Harbor opened its donation site in the Terminal 4 Compassion Corner, inviting the traveling public, employees, business partners, and local residents to contribute essential items.

To date, the airport has received nearly 1,000 gift cards as well as nearly 800 non‑perishable food and household essentials. Demand remains especially high for gas and grocery gift cards, as well as toilet paper, paper towels, and pet food. Gift cards are being distributed to the TSA agents to help ease immediate burdens for families affected by the prolonged shutdown.

“Phoenix is a city where neighbors look out for each other,” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “We’re a community full of people who lift each other up. These federal employees have gone more than a month without pay and are working through one of the airport’s busiest travel times. Their dedication keeps our airport and our economy moving, and this community effort shows them that Phoenix cares about them.”

Many local business organizations, including the Support Sky Harbor Coalition, McCarthy Building Companies, Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., GFT, APS, Wilson Electric, DWL Architects+, Austin Commercial Construction, AECOM, Barich, Inc., Kind Hospitality, and SSP America are also coordinating sizeable contributions during this challenging time. This includes not only non-perishable items but gift cards as well.

Thus far, businesses have donated more than $118,000. In addition, APS, SRP, Southwest Gas, and the City of Phoenix have identified programs to defer interest and penalties on utility payments until pay is restored. Phoenix Sky Harbor’s airport concessionaires are also working to provide support to impacted employees.

“Our hardworking TSA agents show up every single day to keep the travelling public safe. I'm fighting in Congress to make sure they get the pay they've earned and deserve — but in the meantime, the Phoenix community is stepping up in an extraordinary way,” said Rep. Greg Stanton.

“I am proud of how the community has stepped up to support our airport and the TSA officers who ensure we can fly safely every day,” said Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington. “Thank you to all who have donated and continue to donate on their behalf. In an already difficult time financially, these contributions can be vital in helping people. I hope those who haven't yet will also consider donating if they're traveling through Sky Harbor or can make a special visit.”

How to Help

Phoenix Sky Harbor continues to accept:

·       Non-perishable, prepackaged food

·       Hygiene items such as diapers, toilet paper, paper towels, etc.

·       Branded gift cards of $20 or less for gas or groceries. (Note that cash and generic gift cards cannot be accepted.)

Donations may be dropped off daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Compassion Corner in Terminal 4.  Learn more.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, America’s Friendliest Airport^®, has an annual economic impact of more than $44 billion. On an average day, approximately 1,300 aircraft and more than 140,000 passengers arrive at and depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor every day. PHX Sky Harbor is funded with airport revenue. No tax dollars are used to support the airport.