Community steps up to support unpaid TSA workers at Barkley Regional Airport

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI) — Transportation Security Administration workers at Barkley Regional Airport continue to report to work despite not receiving pay, as a federal funding lapse impacts employees nationwide.

Airport officials say 15 TSA officers in Paducah are currently affected. Despite the financial strain, many continue working to keep security operations running smoothly.

“These are people you see in grocery stores, your church — they’re your neighbors. They aren’t numbers. They’re people,” said Kat Byars, marketing manager and public information officer at Barkley Regional Airport.

Byars said the lack of pay has created real challenges for workers and their families, including covering everyday expenses such as gas, childcare and food.

“You can’t exactly go to the gas station and say the government’s going to pay me later when bills have to be paid,” she said.

In response, the airport launched a food drive to support TSA workers. Since then, local businesses, churches and community members have stepped in to help by providing meals, donations and other forms of support.

Byars said the response from the community has been overwhelming and deeply appreciated by those affected.

“These are real people with real problems, waking up every day knowing they have to go to work, but they’re not going to be paid for this,” she said.

She added that the support has had a meaningful emotional impact on workers.

“There’s been tears shed. A lot of love has been felt,” Byars said.

Airport officials say the food drive is ongoing and encourage community members to contribute, noting that even small donations can make a difference.