Affected By The Government Shut Down? One Upstate Business Wants To Help

Government shutdowns are not kind to anybody, least of all federal workers. As of October 24th, 2025, we are on day 23 of the current government shutdown, and federal employees are struggling to make ends meet.

With no end in sight, it can seem hopeless, but one Capital Region business wants to help out any way they can.

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Benson's Pet Center Helping Our Federal Employees

Benson's Pet Center has locations all across the Capital Region, but one in particular is going above and beyond to help those affected by the shutdown. The Clifton Park location is looking to lighten the load for federal employees with pets, offering access to their Pet Food Pantry.

This works similarly to normal food pantries, where folks can make an appointment by calling (518) 373-1007, and pick up pet food and other necessities free of charge. Since the shutdown began, the food pantry has seen an increase of almost 20 more people per week taking advantage of the service.

How You Can Help

With so many people using the Pet Food Pantry in such a short amount of time, they're starting to run out of resources. That's where you come in! Eight of the Pet center's locations across New York State have open donation bins, where you can drop off unopened pet food, toys, and other gently used items.

Over the weekend of October 24th, the Center will be hosting a fundraiser in which 25% of pet toy sales will go towards restocking the pantry. For more information, visit their website.