Barkley Regional Airport is concluding its Fuel the Frontline Food drive following updated guidance from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that prohibits accepting donations now that employees have received back pay.

The food drive was launched earlier this month, March 16, to support TSA officers serving at Barkley Regional Airport during the federal funding lapse. However, TSA leadership notified airport staff that officers may no longer accept gifts or donations of any kind, including food, gift cards, or personal items.

“As TSA employees are starting to receive back pay and are unable to accept any more donations, we are concluding all donation efforts,” said Dennis Rouleau, Executive Director of Barkley Regional Airport. “We’re incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our community. The response was nothing short of remarkable and made a real difference for the officers.”

Since its launch, the initiative has seen strong participation from individuals, businesses, and organizations across the Purchase Region, who provided food, supplies, and meals to TSA officers.

Barkley Regional Airport extends its sincere appreciation to every individual and organization that contributed to the effort.

“This was the community at its best,” Rouleau added. “We’re proud to be part of a region that shows up when it matters most and humbled to be a part of such a generous community.”

All remaining donations will be handled in accordance with TSA guidance. The collection area inside the terminal has been removed, and no additional items will be accepted.

Barkley Regional Airport thanks the community for its generosity and support during the Fuel the Frontline Food Drive.