The government shutdown has left many working families and individuals temporarily at risk for food insecurity and malnutrition. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, however, is offering support for furloughed federal employees.

Matt, 35, is an air traffic controller in the greater Los Angeles area and one of the many federal employees who may have to rely on the Los Angeles Food Bank. He’s been working in his current job for more than eight years, so this is not the first time he’s weathered a partial government shutdown. However, he says this time is different.

“The length definitely differentiates this shutdown from the previous shutdowns,” he said.

Matt said his spending behavior has had to change drastically, and while he has some emergency savings, it’s not enough if the shutdown continues. His main concern is paying his mortgage.

“It’s something I continually worry about,” he said. “I have a car payment that I had to call my credit union and defer because the amount was too great to try to couple with my mortgage payment. Thankfully they were able to do that, but I don’t know that everyone has that option.”

Single, Matt said it’s not so difficult for him to cut corners when it comes to meals, supplementing his diet with ramen noodles, but he said he is concerned about his co-workers who have children.

“It’s very easy for me to dip into unhealthy eating habits for myself and to bounce back when this time period is over,” he said. “But I have a fear for my co-workers who have children. One of them is a single mother. I actually called her earlier today and we were discussing what she’s planning on doing for food.”

He’s never had to visit a food pantry in the past, but Matt is familiar with some agencies in his community from when he used to volunteer. Lately, he’s been researching his options, hoping that some food assistance can provide a cushion to allow him to pay other bills.

As an air traffic controller, Matt is required to continue to go to work, making it very difficult to supplement his income with odd jobs or other work. Matt said he is grateful for all those who are donating and volunteering to provide relief during this time.

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is located at 1734 E. 41st St. For information, visit lafoodbank.org, or call 211.