Government supports federal employees amid partial DHS shutdown.

PRFAA Executive Director Gabriella Boffelli.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Government of Puerto Rico announced new support measures for federal employees affected by the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as part of a strategy led by Governor Jenniffer González Colón.

The initiatives include food distribution and guidance on available benefits across three regions of the Island, aiming to ensure immediate access to essential resources. “The priority of my administration is to respond with action and results… we are doing our part to support them,” the governor stated.

PRFAA Executive Director Gabriella Boffelli noted that “this initiative reflects the governor’s strong leadership… to ensure real and effective support for affected federal employees.”

As part of the plan, food will be distributed at the Convention Center in San Juan and at Mercedita Airport in Ponce and Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla. Secretary of Agriculture Irving Rodríguez Torres said, “Our priority is clear: that no family goes without food during a time of uncertainty.”

Meanwhile, Family Secretary Suzanne Roig Fuertes reported that agency staff will provide information on available assistance, including the Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN). “We will be providing clear information about the benefits… to support affected families,” she said.

She also highlighted that similar initiatives have already taken place at Luis Muñoz Marín Airport and in Aguadilla, in coordination with the TSA, expanding the reach of the government’s response.

Ports Authority Executive Director Norberto Negrón emphasized the importance of these workers: “They serve an essential role in national security… ensuring they can continue performing their duties with the necessary support.”

Finally, Convention District Executive Director Veronica Ferraiuoli stated that these efforts help “facilitate coordinated actions that address the needs of our people,” integrating multiple agencies into a unified response.