MARIETTA, Ga. — It’s day 34 of the partial government shutdown and while federal workers without pay are waiting for Washington, others are finding other ways to help workers trying to get by in metro Atlanta.
Buen Provecho, a Puerto Rican restaurant in Marietta, offered free meals to federal employees on Thursday. A group of furloughed EPA workers who took advantage of the free lunch said the gesture made them feel like other people truly care about what they’re going through.
“To be here, and to have a free meal, I think it kind of reiterates the fact that there are people out there who really appreciate our work and appreciate the things that we do, and the service we provide,” said Mario Zuniga.
“I think it’s an important thing to do,” Audres Febres said, agreeing with Zuniga. “It gives you a little bit of hope when people around are looking out for others, you know?”
Buen Provecho’s owner, Elmer Passapera, said he can relate to how the furloughed workers are feeling right now. Just two years ago, the community came together to help him send relief to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria pummeled his hometown. Passapera said Thursday’s free meal was his way of giving thanks.
“Hopefully this food will demonstrate, you know, the love and compassion that we have,” Passapera said. “It just, it hits close to home … and when I say that, it just reminds me of what we went through.”
Passapera said he understands the fear furloughed workers must be experiencing due to the uncertain future. On Thursday, the Senate rejected two competing bills from Democrats and Republicans in Washington looking to end the government shutdown.
“If we could do something here in Marietta, Georgia, even if it’s just a little bit, I know that will cause a domino effect and hopefully other businesses will take into consideration to help, as well,” Passapera said. “We are very loving people, we are very affectionate, and that’s what our food is. It shows our gratitude … when you here people say, ‘these people put a lot of love in their food,’ that is us.”