Orlando airport authority launches donation drive to support unpaid TSA workers during DHS funding lapse
Food and supply donations collected at Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), the public agency that operates Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), has launched a public donation drive aimed at supporting Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees working without pay during a lapse in funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The collection effort is centered on nonperishable groceries and household necessities. GOAA has also included options intended to help with day-to-day costs such as fuel and basic shopping during the period of missed pay.
Where and when donations are being accepted
GOAA designated multiple drop-off points and set collection windows that align with passenger traffic and weekday access at the two airports.
Orlando International Airport (Terminal C departures curb): 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, March 6 through Monday, March 9, 2026, with the possibility of additional days if needed.
Orlando Executive Airport (365 Rickenbacker Drive): 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, continuing until further notice.
Information booths at MCO: drop-off locations on the departures level in Terminals A, B and C.
What is being collected
GOAA’s list focuses on items that can be quickly distributed and stored safely. The requested donations include:
Nonperishable food items
Cleaning and laundry supplies
Diapers (all sizes)
Pet supplies
$10 gift cards for gas or grocery purchases
Why TSA pay is affected, and who is impacted at airports
The donation drive comes as DHS remains unfunded after a funding lapse that began on February 14, 2026. TSA, as a DHS component, is among the agencies whose employees may be required to continue working even when pay is delayed during a shutdown or funding gap.
At Orlando’s airports, TSA officers screen passengers and baggage daily. GOAA has framed the drive as support for federal partners whose roles are tied directly to airport security and operations.
Parallel relief efforts and operational considerations
In addition to the airport authority’s donation program, TSA labor representatives in Florida have organized separate distributions of food and toiletries for screening officers across multiple airports in North and Central Florida.
The donation effort is intended to help essential airport workers meet immediate household needs while the federal funding lapse continues.
Airport operations at MCO have continued during the funding lapse, with GOAA advising travelers to monitor airport information channels for updates if conditions change.