Tarpon Springs-based non-profit hosting benefit for families impacted by shutdown

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. (FOX 13) - A Tarpon Springs, Florida non-profit is gearing up to help Bay Area U.S. Coast Guard workers and their families who may not get a paycheck January 15.

The government shutdown has gone on 19 worrisome and uncertain days and the political battle in Washington D.C. isn't showing signs of an agreement anytime soon.

Coast Guard employees at Fort Valor hope an event this weekend will help raise much-needed and appreciated funds for their families to have some financial security until their checks arrive. 

Saturday, Jan. 12, at noon, Fort Valor is hosting special jiu-jitsu and yoga seminar.

All of the proceeds from the event will go toward a fund to help pay for gas, utilities, groceries, and other necessities for Bay Area Coast Guard families.

"Things like rent, utilities , diapers, food, gas, things that the government is not necessarily going to to help out with during this time," said Jeff Baughman, deputy director of the non-profit dedicated to helping active duty service members and veterans.

According to Baughman, many local Coast Guard workers are worried about their future.

About 800,000 federal workers are affected by the shutdown. The U.S. Coast Guard is the only branch of the military that falls in that mix.

"Coast Guard members, as well as all other services, risk their lives everyday," said David Kelley, a 25-year Coast Guard veteran. "Obviously right now it is a topic of conversation among everyone, most are worried if they're going to be paid, and if they're not paid, how long is that going to go on."

For information about this weekend's event, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1958309037610704/