Government Shutdown: Local businesses, agencies step up to help federal workers in Delaware
Rishen Patel knows how tough it is to live paycheck to paycheck.
He said he can only imagine what it would be like to have that income ripped away because of the government shutdown. In Delaware, more than 500 federal employees are either furloughed or working without pay.
The Middletown business owner is extending help to federal employees and their families affected by the shutdown by offering a free meal at Manhattan Bagel and a free game at his Novus Escape Room when it opens Jan. 31.
“The first thing you cut back on when you aren’t getting that paycheck is going out for a bite to eat and entertainment,” Patel said. “I want to give federal employees and their families in that situation a chance to have some fun and to have a meal on me.”
'I just want to get back to work,' Delaware federal workers speak out
An ID will be required at both businesses.
Other Delaware businesses and organizations have also offered help for furloughed or unpaid government workers. Here's a roundup:
Unemployment: Furloughed employees are eligible for unemployment insurance from the Delaware Department of Labor. Up to $330 a week for a maximum of 26 weeks is available. However, if employees receive back pay when the shutdown ends, the unemployment insurance must be repaid to the state of Delaware. Apply at ui.delawareworks.com. Employees who work in other states must apply for unemployment benefits in those states.
Food Bank: The Food Bank of Delaware is operating an emergency pantry specifically for federal workers affected by the shutdown at its Newark (14 Garfield Way) and Milford (1040 Mattlind Way) locations. The assistance is offered Monday through Friday, 8:30 am - 3:30 p.m. A federal ID is required. Regular pantries can also be found by dialing 2-1-1.
Dover Federal Credit Union: Members who are affected by the shutdown, or affected workers who are eligible for membership, are being offered an interest-free loan. Those who qualify can get up to 75 percent of their normal net pay during each pay period deposited into their credit union accounts. There will be no interest for 60 days after the shutdown ends, but remaining balances after that will incur 3 percent interest.
Christiana Care: The health system offers guidance for those making health care decisions such as scheduling appointments or filling prescriptions during financial difficulties. Contact Health Guides at 302-320-6586 or healthguides@christianacare.org.
Tanger Outlets: The outlets in Rehoboth Beach are offering $20 gift cards and other discounts to federal workers through Jan. 28. Present a government ID at the shopper services centers at Tanger Seaside (36470 Seaside Outlet Drive) or Tanger Surfside (35000 Midway Outlet Drive).
Contact Jeanne Kuang at jkuang@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2476. Follow her on Twitter at @JeanneKuang.
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