Greater Topeka Chamber Military Relations Council, Downtown Topeka Inc. Partner with Downtown Businesses to Support Coast Guard Employees
The Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce Military Relations Council (MRC) is raising awareness of the ongoing impact the partial federal government shutdown is having on local Coast Guard operations and the dedicated employees who serve our nation from right here in Topeka.
The U.S. Coast Guard Pay and Personnel Center (PPC), located in downtown Topeka, plays a critical role in supporting Coast Guard members across the country and around the world. The center, which employs more than 200 active duty, reserve, and civilian personnel, is responsible for administering payroll, managing personnel records, and ensuring service members can focus on their mission.
However, during the current shutdown, many civilian Coast Guard employees have been required to continue reporting to work without pay, creating significant financial strain for local families and highlighting the real, local impact of federal funding uncertainty.
“The impact of this shutdown is not abstract for Topeka; it is being felt by our neighbors, our friends, and the dedicated public servants who support our nation’s military every day,” said Bob Ross, President of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. “These individuals play a vital role in ensuring Coast Guard members are paid accurately and on time, and it is critical that we recognize both their service and the challenges they are facing right now.”
In response, the Military Relations Council is partnering with Downtown Topeka Inc., AIM Strategies, and other downtown businesses to provide immediate, tangible support to Coast Guard employees.
AIM Strategies is offering a 20% discount at its downtown Topeka restaurant locations to U.S. Coast Guard active-duty and civilian members, regardless of unit, rank, or pay grade, who present their badge while the shutdown persists. Other downtown businesses, including The Celtic Fox, Hazel Hill and The Tee Box, have joined the effort and are also offering a 20% discount. Additionally AIM Strategies will host a catered lunch for Coast Guard employees this month at the federal building in downtown Topeka.
“We are proud to step up and support the Coast Guard employees here in Topeka during this challenging time,” said Seth Wagoner, CEO of AIM Strategies. “These individuals continue to show up and serve, even in uncertain circumstances, and we want them to know that this community stands behind them.”
“This effort reflects the very best of our downtown community,” said Andrew Holt, President of Downtown Topeka Inc. “Our businesses consistently show up for one another, and in moments like this, it’s inspiring to see our downtown rally together to support those who serve our country and our community.”
The Greater Topeka Chamber and its Military Relations Council encourage additional businesses to participate in supporting Coast Guard employees during the shutdown. Businesses interested in joining this effort are encouraged to contact Jessyca Moreno at the Greater Topeka Partnership at jessyca.moreno@topekapartnership.com.
The Military Relations Council and its partners remain committed to supporting the men and women who serve our country and the families who stand behind them, while also encouraging federal leaders to reach a resolution that ensures stability for critical operations like those carried out in Topeka.
Participating Downtown Businesses Offering Support
The following downtown Topeka businesses are currently offering a 20% discount to Coast Guard personnel with presentation of a valid ID:
