FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — “Whether you agree with the Congress or you agree with the President, what we should all agree on is that if people come to work, they should get paid, they should not have to come to work for free,” said Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer.<\/p>\n
But across the country, thousands of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees are doing just that, working without a paycheck for nearly a month and a half.<\/p>\n
At Fresno Yosemite International Airport, 146 TSA employees are facing uncertainty.<\/p>\n
On Friday morning, Mayor Jerry Dyer presented a $25,000 check, tax-free money going straight to the agents.<\/p>\n
“This is why I love Fresno. In time of crisis, in time of need, people come together in our community without hesitation,” said Dyer.<\/p>\n
Along with some cash, employees have received gift cards for groceries and gas.<\/p>\n
Support, Dyer says, would not be possible without the collaboration of the Central California Food Bank, local businesses and non-profits including the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation.<\/p>\n
A pantry is set up at the airport, where about 11,000 pounds of food has been delivered over the last month.<\/p>\n
“Showing up for our community, this is what our mission looks like in action. We are meeting people where they are. Responding quickly, ensuring they get access to the food that they need with dignity and choice,” said Central California Food Bank CEO Natalie Caples.<\/p>\n
Dyer says without TSA workers showing up, the situation could look very different for Valley travelers, thanking them for their hard work, especially with Spring break around the corner.<\/p>\n
Francisco Partida spoke on behalf of the employees, who he says are beyond thankful for the support during these challenging times.<\/p>\n
“We are very grateful for their effort, their commitment, and they have expressed their gratitude for all of these efforts put together by the community,” said Francisco Partida .<\/p>\n
Mayor Dyer says that, despite President Trump signing an executive order allowing TSA agents to be paid<\/a>, the employees will receive gift cards, cash, and access to food until a paycheck comes in.<\/p>\n For news updates, follow Elisa Navarro on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n Copyright \u00a9 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.<\/p>\n