Longtime Detroit Bar Gives Away Free Meals To Furloughed Federal Workers During Shutdown

At the heart of Detroit, the Anchor Bar started serving free meals to federal staff with valid IDs this Tuesday. The shutdown stretches into week two.

"For decades, the Anchor Bar has been a gathering place for Detroit's workers, journalists, and public servants," said Nabih Ayad, owner of the Anchor Bar, according to The Detroit Free Press. "We believe in taking care of our community—especially those who take care of all of us. This is our way of saying thank you and standing in solidarity during these challenging times."

Starting October 7, workers can get meals at 450 West Fort Street by showing their government badge.

In Michigan, government jobs support 35,000 workers. Medical staff at VA hospitals make up one-third of this group. Now these workers sit at home or clock in without getting paid.

Since 1957, this restaurant in downtown has drawn crowds of office staff, news writers, and city workers who stop in after their shifts.

The program will continue until Washington ends the standoff.