Why is TGI Fridays giving away free meals?
With the government shutdown leaving many federal workers unpaid, TGI Fridays announced that it would offer complimentary meals to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic control employees. The free meals are available from October 9 to October 23 or until the shutdown ends, as per a report by The US Sun.
Eligible workers can choose from several popular menu items, including chicken fingers with fries, cheeseburgers, grilled or crispy chicken sandwiches, or chicken Caesar salads. The deal applies to over 80 TGI Fridays locations nationwide, including both airport and neighborhood restaurants, as per a report by The US Sun.
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In a press statement, CEO Ray Blanchette said, “TSA and air traffic control workers keep our country moving, and we wanted to do our part to support them.”
“Whether they’re grabbing a meal at one of our airport locations during a shift or sitting down at a neighborhood Fridays® after a long day, we want them to know we appreciate them and we’re here for them.”
“At TGI Fridays, we believe that nothing should stop people from being able to dine, connect, and celebrate—especially those who show up to serve our communities every single day,” Blanchette continued.
What’s behind the government shutdown?
The federal government shutdown began on October 1 after Congress failed to pass a new funding bill. Republicans had backed a short-term funding measure through November 21, but Democrats blocked it, citing concerns over healthcare and Medicaid cuts, as per a report by The US Sun.
As a result, nearly 40% of federal workers are currently unpaid. However, TSA agents and air traffic controllers are classified as essential employees, meaning they must continue working without pay until the shutdown ends. Once funding is restored, they will receive back pay, according to The New York Times.
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How are workers being supported elsewhere?
While TGI Fridays’ gesture is available at most of its restaurants across the country, Atlanta’s airport locations are not part of this particular program. Instead, Mayor Andre Dickens and Congresswoman Nikema Williams have introduced a separate initiative to help TSA staff at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as per a report by The US Sun.
Under the Atlanta program, TSA workers receive free parking during their shifts, along with meal vouchers, two for full-time staff and one for part-time employees. Airport concessionaires have also been permitted to offer additional discounts or free meals.
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Eligible workers at TGI Fridays locations must show valid employee identification to claim their meal. At traditional restaurants, they can dine in, while at airport locations, meals are only available to-go for convenience.
TGI Fridays’ show of goodwill comes less than a year after the company faced major financial challenges. In November 2024, the restaurant chain filed for bankruptcy, citing $37 million in debt, according to The Food Institute. Despite that setback, more than 80 locations remain open in the United States, down from 270 at the start of 2024, as per a report by CNN.
By extending free meals to unpaid federal employees, TGI Fridays is demonstrating resilience and compassion, reaffirming its commitment to community support even during tough times.
FAQs
Who is eligible for TGI Fridays’ free meal offer?
TSA agents and air traffic controllers can receive one free meal daily by showing valid employee identification.
How long will the free meal program last?
The program runs through October 23 or until the government shutdown ends.
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