Government Shutdown Takes Its Toll: Family of Federal Worker Hits Hardship Milestone

Federal Worker's Family Feels the Pinch as Shutdown Drags On DENVER - As the partial government shutdown enters its 33rd day, a federal worker's family is feeling the strain of reduced income. Stephanie Rogers, a microbiologist with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has been forced to dip into her retirement savings to make ends meet for herself and her two young daughters. "It feels terrible," Rogers said in an interview at her mother's home outside Denver, where she and her daughters have been living since August. "We're having to tighten our belts big time." Rogers' situation is not unique. According to a recent report by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), over 800,000 federal employees are affected by the shutdown, with many facing financial hardship. The FDA, where Rogers works, has been operating at reduced capacity since September 30, when the shutdown began. Rogers' income has been severely impacted, forcing her to rely on her retirement savings to support herself and her daughters. "We're having to make some tough choices," Rogers said. "We're cutting back on non-essential expenses, but it's still a struggle." Rogers' situation highlights the broader impact of the shutdown on federal workers and their families. Many are struggling to pay bills, put food on the table, and keep a roof over their heads. The shutdown has also had a significant economic impact, with some estimates suggesting that it could cost the economy up to $5 billion per week. As the shutdown continues, Rogers is worried about her family's future. "I'm not sure how much longer we can keep this up," she said. "We're just trying to make ends meet until this thing gets resolved." The current status of the shutdown remains uncertain, with lawmakers struggling to reach a deal on funding for border security and other issues. As the situation continues to unfold, Rogers' family will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that will bring stability back to their lives. *Reporting by Npr.*