During the 2018 partial government shutdown, businesses and organizations across the Valley, including Mesa and surrounding areas, stepped up to offer support to furloughed federal workers. These initiatives ranged from free meals and discounted services to financial loans and membership waivers. The offers were designed to provide immediate relief to employees affected by the closure of federal agencies. While many of these specific promotions were tied to the duration of that particular shutdown, they illustrate a broader network of civic-minded support available during times of crisis.
Local Restaurant Offers and Dining Discounts
Several restaurants in the Mesa and Gilbert areas provided free meals or significant discounts to federal employees who could prove their status. These offers generally required a government ID or a zero-net pay stub to verify eligibility.
- Waldo’s BBQ: Located in Mesa and Gilbert, Waldo’s offered federal employees and their families a free meal on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the shutdown.
- Barrio Cafe: Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza announced that federal government workers could receive a free meal at her restaurant while the shutdown persisted. No additional purchase was necessary, though verification of employment was likely required.
- Rigatony's Authentic Italian: This establishment provided a free lunch or dinner entree each day to affected federal workers until the government resumed operations. The offer was valid for dine-in only and required showing a government ID to a manager.
- The Brass Tap (Downtown Gilbert): Furloughed workers received 50% off "handheld menu" items, including burgers, tacos, flatbreads, wraps, pizza, and sliders. This discount was available Monday through Thursday from opening until 6 p.m.
- Sedona Pizza Company (Sedona): Federal employees received a complimentary meal and a non-alcoholic drink. Beer or margaritas were available for purchase at $1 each.
- Canyon Breeze (Sedona): Similar to Sedona Pizza Company, this location offered a free meal and non-alcoholic drink, with alcoholic beverages available for $1.
Entertainment and Leisure Discounts
Businesses in the entertainment sector also extended offers to help families manage stress and maintain normalcy during the shutdown.
- Get Air Indoor Trampoline Park: Locations in Tucson and Yuma allowed furloughed government workers and up to three immediate family members one free hour of jump time on Wednesdays and Thursdays until the shutdown ended.
Health, Wellness, and Personal Services
Several service providers offered discounted or complimentary services to help federal workers maintain their health and appearance.
- Floyd's 99 Barbershop: This chain offered furloughed government workers a half-priced haircut along with a complimentary massage shampoo for the duration of the shutdown.
- YMCA (Valley of the Sun): The YMCA provided a one-month membership to furloughed government workers. Existing members had their January dues waived, while non-members received a free month. A government ID was required to sign up at any YMCA branch.
- Muscular Moving Men: This moving company extended a 10% discount on moves to federal employees while the partial shutdown continued.
Financial and Community Support Resources
Beyond direct consumer offers, structured financial assistance and community mapping tools were created to aggregate resources for affected workers.
The Shutdown Assistance Map (SAM)
The Shutdown Assistance Map (SAM) was a centralized resource designed to help federal employees locate both local and national support during the shutdown. The map allowed users to search for offers of assistance available in their area. It also invited local businesses and organizations to add their listings to the map. Additionally, the platform sought volunteers to help manage the map and its data.
National Assistance Programs
Several national organizations stepped in to provide financial relief. For example, the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) offered zero-interest loans to Airmen, Guardians, and their families affected by the 2025 government shutdown. The resource guide suggested that affected workers reach out to their credit card providers, lenders, and utility companies to inquire about special programs or payment accommodations.
Legal Considerations Regarding Election Day Freebies
While not directly related to the government shutdown, it is important for consumers and businesses to be aware of laws governing promotional offers. In November 2012, several Valley businesses, including Sprinkles Cupcakes in Scottsdale, Einstein Bagels, Rainbow Donut Cafe, Olive Garden, Ra Sushi, Circle K, and Cadillac Ranch Texaz Grill, offered free items to customers wearing "I voted" stickers.
The Arizona Attorney General's office intervened, noting that these promotions violated a federal election law prohibiting the provision of "considerations or promise of anything of value to induce people to go to the polls." The businesses agreed to stop the promotions immediately. This serves as a reminder that well-intentioned freebies can sometimes conflict with legal regulations depending on the context.
Broader Economic Context of the Shutdown
The government shutdown had wider economic implications beyond individual consumer offers. In Arizona, the shutdown nearly disrupted the produce harvest in Yuma County, which is responsible for the majority of leafy greens supplied to American and Canadian grocery stores during the winter months. Temporary work visa processing was halted, threatening the harvest, but officials worked with the Trump administration to clear the way for workers to enter the U.S. and resume operations.
Conclusion
The response to the government shutdown in the Mesa, Arizona area demonstrated a strong community commitment to supporting federal workers. Through free meals, discounted services, and structured financial aid, local businesses and national organizations provided essential assistance. While these specific offers were temporary, they highlight the availability of community resources during emergencies. Consumers seeking similar assistance should verify current availability directly with businesses or through dedicated support platforms.