Over the past week, The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) has served thousands of meals at multiple airports across the nation to TSA agents and other Federal workers. Many of these employees have not received a pay check for over a month due to the recent government shut down, and yet have shown dedication to their job, by continuing to come to work.

Volunteers set up and ready to serve

As part of this mission, the Rapid Relief Team was honored to serve a lunch to the loyal federal employees. Around 9:30 am on Saturday January 25th, RRT set up one of their Mobile Support Units at the Omaha Eppley Airfield and began grilling burgers. The team continued to serve well over 100 classic burgers, condiments, chips, and beverages until 2:00 pm.

Burgers from the RRT trailer

TSA agents receiving their meals

The RRT free lunch brought grateful smiles to many faces and thankful comments from the TSA agents.  Some of the comments were, “that was tasty”, “faster than McDonalds”, “this rooms smells awesome!”, and a favorite “I don’t know what this is, but this is awesome!”

Lined up for lunch

Rotella’s Italian Bakery donated all the burger buns to RRT, to be used at the free lunch RRT served on Saturday and planned to serve again on Monday, 350 in total. Rotella’s also donated 240 loaves of bread to be handed out to TSA agents, to take home to their families.  The Rapid Relief Team cannot thank them enough for their support to our mission!

Officers relaxing after eating their meal

TSA was set up in 2001 as a result of the September 11 attacks on this nation and grew to over 60,000 federal employees in just over a year. These hard working employees are continuing to keep our airports open and safe while currently not receiving a paycheck. Without them the security of travel in the country would be at risk.

Free lunch for TSA officers

The Rapid Relief Team was grateful for the opportunity to show our support to those who are affected by the government shutdown. RRT will continue to work closely with the TSA, and where possible, will further our efforts to feed workers at airports across the United States.

Watch Rapid Relief Team In Action.

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