AUSTIN, Texas -- Organizations and private businesses across the country are reaching out to help the thousands of federal workers who are currently not getting paid due to the partial government shutdown. That includes Austin.
• Austin Energy: Payment programs and service restoration
• Bakery Lorraine: Free pastry and coffee to federal workers who present an ID
• CapMetro: Free rides for federal workers
• Central Texas Food Bank: Food distribution for Federal employees
More information:
• Anyone that did not make it on Wednesday can still receive assistance by looking for their nearest food pantry
• How to help: Send in donations.
• Punch Bowl Social: The Austin location of the combination bowling alley, restaurant, and bar is offering 25 percent discounts on food, drinks, and games to all federal government employees throughout the shutdown.
MOBILE PHONE PROVIDERS:
- Sprint: "Our Care representatives will coordinate with qualified customers and our financial team to find a payment option that works and keep your service uninterrupted during the government shutdown," Sprint said in a statement. Affected customers can call 888-211-4727 or embark in an online chat on the Sprint website.
- T-Mobile: Short-term account assistance can be tailored to meet the needs of customers who are federal workers, T-Mobile announced. Such assistance includes deferred payments and "flexible payment options," enabling customers to spread service payments over a tailored time frame. Affected customers can call T-Mobile Customer Care to discuss options at 611 from a T-Mobile device or 877-746-0909.
- Verizon: Flexible payment options are being offered to affected customers, along with the option of setting up a "Promise to Pay" agreement via the My Verizon app or website and waiving late fees. Those needing further assistance or in need of amplified information can call 866-266-1445.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
• Chase
• Discover