The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding freeze has resulted in a partial government shutdown, resulting in hundreds of TSA workers leaving and hundreds of others resigning due to the lack of funding. This has led to increased waiting times at major airports during spring break travel periods. Local airports like St. Pete-Clearwater and Tampa International have partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to assist airport staff affected by the shutdown. The organization provides food assistance, financial advice, and medical help in 10 counties across West Central Florida. However, the broader Tampa Bay community has also been affected by rising costs, with Lorena Hardwick, the organization’s Chief External Affairs Director, stating that rising gas prices and rising food prices have led to an influx of families seeking assistance.