North Providence pub offers free meals to government workers during shutdown

By: Amanda Pitts

alpitts@abc6.com

@APittsABC6

NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – A big act of kindness took place at Arigna Irish Pub in North Providence on Sunday afternoon.

“We’re just trying to do something good for the community,” said general manager Bretty Malenfant.

The restaurant served up free pizza and soft drinks to federal employees from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., as the government shutdown enters week five.

“Going into work every day, even though they’re not getting paid.. We’re gonna bring them in, we’re gonna feed them, we’re gonna send them home happy with a smile on their face and it’s really all you can ask for,” said employee Dylan Gomes.

The Fudge family were the first ones served. Felecia Fudge has worked for the IRS since 1988.

Since the start of her career, she’s seen six government shutdowns under three presidents, but this one is the longest.

“Federal employees, we do our job. We understand (President Trump’s) motivation but at the same token, it’s like we’re a pawn in trying to get his wall, get the wall built,” said Fudge.

She’s now missed two paychecks and is frustrated that everything is now on her husband’s shoulders.

“It takes two incomes in today’s times to raise a family and it’s hard.”

With four sons and six grandkids, she says she’s struggling. But acts of kindness like this, that gives her family a moment of peace, get her through.

“In times of tragedy and struggle, you see people out there that support you and it makes you feel good. That you’re not alone.”

Arigna said if the shutdown continues, they will likely hold an event like this again.

(c) WLNE-TV 2019