Barkley Regional Airport (PAH) has launched a community food drive to support local Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers who continue working without pay during the Department of Homeland Security funding lapse.
The initiative, titled “Fuel the Frontline Food Drive,” began March 16, 2026, and collects non-perishable food and essential items inside the airport terminal. The effort aims to provide relief to the 15 TSA officers stationed at Barkley Regional Airport, who continue reporting to work each day to screen passengers and maintain airport security.
While the funding lapse is a national issue, airport officials say the impact is being felt locally as officers and their families begin to experience financial strain. TSA officers stationed at Barkley Regional Airport are members of the Purchase Region community who continue reporting to work each day to screen passengers and ensure airport security, even though they are not currently receiving pay.
“These officers are our neighbors, our friends, and members of this community,” said Dennis Rouleau, Executive Director of Barkley Regional Airport. “They continue to show up every day to protect the traveling public and keep our airport secure. This effort is about making sure they know the community stands behind them during a difficult time.”
Community response to the food drive has been strong, with residents across the Purchase Region contributing donations. A photo album is now on the FlyBarkley Facebook Page to highlight the impact of those contributions and show how items are being distributed.
The airport is accepting donations of non-perishable food items, including canned goods, pasta, rice, cereal, and snacks. Baby supplies such as diapers (size 4 infant), wipes, and baby food, as well as hygiene items like toiletries, are also encouraged. Due to federal guidelines, TSA officers are not permitted to accept cash or cash-equivalent gifts. However, store-specific gift cards valued at $20 or less, such as those for grocery or gas purchases, are allowed if distributed through local TSA supervisors.
Organizations interested in providing meals can contact the Barkley Regional Airport administrative office at 270-744-0521, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to coordinate.