More than 100 people attend resource fair for federal workers

U.S. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal spent the day in Seattle at City Hall.

There, she partnered with the city to put on a resource fair for federal workers who have been impacted by the government shutdown.

“I was thrilled to be able to propose this to the City of Seattle, and today is all about providing federal workers with as many resources as we can,” Jayapal said.

More than 100 people came in the first 45 minutes of the fair.

“I was able to stockpile some food, so I have a little bit to get me by. I have rent for November. If this continues, I may not have rent for December,” furloughed federal contractor Alison Jowers said.

Some were worried, depressed, and anxious about the near-term future for their families.

“It’s not easy not knowing if the Department of Defense is going to pay service members. I will have to shoulder all of our bills — two car payments, a mortgage in Georgia, rent in Seattle, groceries for both places. And, it’s going to be tight,” Caressa, who lives in Seattle while her husband serves in the military in Georgia, said.

Impacted workers were offered help and support for things like food, rental and mortgage assistance, as well as information about transportation, and help with utilities.

“We want to support our customers through these uncertain times as they navigate financial challenges. Our customer care team is prepared to work with anyone impacted so they don’t have to worry about their utility bills while waiting for their paychecks,” Andrew Lee, General Manager and CEO of Seattle Public Utilities, said.

Several organizations participate in Seattle resource fair

A number of community and government partners participated, including Seattle City Light.

“We know that in times of financial uncertainty, it can be hard to ask for assistance. We want customers to know that there are options available for everyone, and we want to help,” Dawn Lindell, General Manager and CEO of Seattle City Light, said.

Other agencies and organizations participating were Seattle Public Utilities, Food Lifeline, BECU, Essentials First, United Way of King County, Washington State Employment Security Department, and Workforce Development Council of Seattle – King County.

“The City of Seattle cares deeply about our residents and communities, especially those facing hardship because of the federal shutdown,” Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell said. “We also know affordability pressures are real for many families across our city. That’s why we’re connecting federal workers and people of all occupations to resources they can use right now.”

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