TSA is working without pay amid government shutdown. How to support CAE agents
The Columbia Metropolitan Airport, along with local official and small businesses, are collecting items to support Transportation Security Administration workers who aren’t receiving paychecks.
Funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security was cut off on Feb. 14. Congress failed to pass a bill to keep money flowing after Democrats demanded reforms at Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. ICE remains funded
But workers with the Transportation Security Administration are deemed essential — for now, that means they are left working without pay. More than 400 TSA workers have quit since the shutdown began, NBC reported, and the agency has seen a 10% callout rate on “more than half the days of the last week.”
The airport is collecting nonperishable foods, personal care items and household supplies for Columbia’s TSA agents, as well as gifts cards for things like gas and groceries.
“We’re incredibly thankful to our dedicated TSA and CBP agents who show up to work every day despite the partial government shutdown,” said Chris White, President & CEO of CAE. “During this time, our TSA and CBP agents, like those across the country, are not receiving paychecks and for anyone that would make day-to-day living challenging.”
Donations can be dropped at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport information desk in the lobby between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily, or at the valet booth across from the main entrance between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
While there is no end date in sight for the donation drive, airport officials are monitoring the shutdown.
Local officials, Lexington town Councilman Gavin Smith and Cayce city Councilman Byron Thomas, are joining forces with several local businesses to collect donations as well. They are asking for gas gift cards to give TSA agents. Gift cards can be dropped at Amy V. Cofield, Attorney-at-Law, LLC, Crosby Roofing & Seamless Gutters or Elite Lawn & Landscape LLC, all of which are located in Lexington. They will be
“To any of you who want to contribute, thank you!” Smith wrote on social media. “This is a time for us to come together to support these men and women who work hard to keep us safe each and everytime we travel through CAE!”
This story was originally published March 25, 2026 at 5:00 AM.
