Furloughed federal workers in New York are finding help right in their communities.
As the government shutdown stretches on, businesses and organizations have stepped up to offer struggling workers free meals, services and more.
If you’re a federal worker without a paycheck, here are a few places in the city offering help.
Funbars Government Meal Plan
Entrepreneur Michael Sinensky, who owns hospitality company Simple Venue, is offering an array of specials and free services for workers affected by the shutdown. In order to take advantage of the so-called Funbars Government Meal Plan, workers need to email shutdown@funbars.com or call 212-677-2900.
- All six Juice Shop locations are providing free fresh pressed juice for breakfast.
- Sushi by Bou at Jue Lan Club in the Flatiron District is providing free lunch.
- For dinner, Sidebar in Union Square is offering a free entrée and a Bud Light draft.
- Hudson Terrace is letting affected workers skip the line, with no cover charge, on Friday and Saturday nights. Once inside, relax with a complimentary drink.
Complimentary ticket to ‘Beautiful – The Carole King Musical’
Eligible federal workers can see the musical for free during select evening performances on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. Workers must present a valid government ID at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre’s box office, located at 124 W. 43rd St., on the day of the desired performance.
Free entry at New York-Historical Society
Furloughed employees with a valid federal ID can bring one guest with them to the museum, located at 170 Central Park West, for free. The “Harry Potter: A History of Magic” exhibit, however, is not included.
Hudson News discount for TSA and customs workers
Hudson Group, which owns Hudson News stands in the city’s airports, is offering workers with the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection a 20 percent discount on all food, drinks and “core store products.”
Free lunch at Brother Jimmy’s
Federal workers with a valid government ID can snag a free lunch Thursday and Friday from the Brother Jimmy’s BBQ restaurant located at 181 Lexington Ave. in Manhattan. The meal is served with a choice of Coors Light, Miller Lite Draft, iced tea or soda.
Brrrn complimentary workout
Affected federal workers with a valid government ID can blow off some steam with a free workout from Brrrn at its flagship studio, located at 107 W. 20th St. in the Flatiron District.
Free admission at BAM Rose Cinemas
Federal workers impacted by the shutdown can enjoy a healthy dose of escapism at BAM Rose Cinemas, located at 30 Lafayette Ave. in Brooklyn. The theater is offering free admission, Monday through Thursday, to the first showing of any film currently playing. To take advantage of the offer, workers must present a federal employee ID at the box office.
Hunger Free America’s Fed Food hotline and website
Federal workers and contractors can call 855-859-4647 or visit HungerFreeAmerica.org/FedFood for help finding food resources that are closest to home.
Cleaning services across five boroughs
On Demand Cleaning Services is offering workers a free two-hour cleaning service with the presentation of a federal ID upon booking.
Meal delivery via CookUnity
CookUnity, a service that connects New Yorkers with private chefs, is offering federal workers impacted by the shutdown a free meal delivered to their door.
Free admission to the Museum of the Moving Image
Furloughed federal workers can enjoy free admission to the museum, located at 36-01 35th Ave. in Astoria, with the presentation of a valid government ID.
Madame Tussauds free entry
Fifteen Merlin Entertainments, which owns Madame Tussauds attractions nationwide, is offering furloughed federal workers free admission to the famous Times Square tourist attraction. Workers must show a valid government ID to obtain a free ticket.
