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ENC airport accepting donations for TSA employees working without pay during partial government shutdown

Albert J. Ellis Airport Director Chris White said holiday travelers are already streaming in and out of the airport in Jacksonville, even though a national shortage of pilots is impacting eastern North Carolina and the rest of the nation.
Albert J. Ellis Airport
File: Albert J. Ellis Airport.

As the federal government shutdown continues to impact pay for essential workers, Albert J. Ellis Airport is stepping up to support Transportation Security Administration officers at OAJ.

Despite the ongoing Department of Homeland Security funding lapse, TSA officers remain on duty to ensure traveler safety and keep all flights operating on schedule. To assist these workers, airport officials are now accepting donations of non-perishable food items and gift cards.

Community members who wish to help can drop off donations at the OAJ Police Office, located on the second floor of the terminal.

While operations remain normal, passengers are still encouraged to check directly with their airlines for any potential updates.

Annette is an award-winning journalist based in Eastern North Carolina. Her career includes professional stops across the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Southeast, recently culminating in a 2026 Region 8 Edward R. Murrow Award for Small Market Radio Best News Series for her work on the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Series. Guided by a passion for human-interest storytelling, she focuses on narratives that touch hearts and connect communities. A mother of four and grandmother of two, Annette enjoys reading and creating epic Halloween costumes in her spare time. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.