As many as 800,000 federal staff haven't been paid since last month - because of a row over President Donald Trump's border wall with Mexico.
In response, pastor Ed Newton from the Community Bible Church (CBC) in Texas challenged members to purchase gift cards for all 376 federal workers at San Antonio's airport.
Newton told website Fox Antonio that according to officials from the airport, federal workers aren't allowed to accept cash, or gift cards that exceed $20.
In just three days, the church had bags overflowing with $20 gift cards.
"Today, we stand in front of you, with $75,000 in gift cards," Newton told federal workers at the airport.
This is what thousands of dollars worth of gift cards looks like! Amazing generosity displayed by those at @CBCSocial. Tonight @ 9 and 10 we share how they're giving to those impacted by the shutdown, and the emotional reaction from workers. @KABBFOX29 @News4SA pic.twitter.com/kx7Tue6EBX
— Matthew Seedorff (@MattSeedorff) January 25, 2019
The pastor also expressed gratitude for his church members' generosity.
He said: "It's just a demonstration of the heart of San Antonio, and the heart of Community Bible Church."
All 376 federal workers at San Antonio International Airport received $200 worth of $20 gift cards.
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