Corridor businesses offer shutdown assistance

Some eateries in the Corridor have been offering help to federal workers who have been going unpaid during the ongoing government shutdown.

At Wild Hogs Saloon and Eatery, 350 Commercial Dr., Walford, 39 people came in for a free burger and fries Thursday, an employee said Thursday afternoon. The restaurant had posted the offer for any out-of-work federal employee with a government work badge, plus up to two family members, during the Thursday lunch hour.

'Our way of saying we appreciate what you all do and hoping you can get back to work soon,” the restaurant wrote on Facebook.

Great Harvest Bread Co., 5070 Lindale Dr. in Cedar Rapids, posted on Facebook Thursday a photo of its 'Shutdown Shelf,” with loaves of bread.

'If you or someone you know is approaching the second loss of a paycheck because of the shutdown and could use a boost from our shelves, please stop in. We would appreciate help in getting bread to anyone in need,” the post said.

Cedar Rapids restaurant Edith Lucielle's Bait Shack and Wing Depot, 6913 Mount Vernon Rd. SE, also posted an offer on Facebook.

'Free Lunch to all Federal employees working without pay or on furlough. You run our country and now without pay. We want to show our appreciation in these hard times by offering a free lunch.”

Federal employees can stop into the restaurant between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesday for a free smoked pulled-pork sandwich and a choice of a side dish.

' Know of other businesses offering meals to furloughed government employees? Let us know at (319) 398-8339 or email alison.gowans@thegazette.com.