When Washington Stalled, Richmond Stepped Up: WRVA, Kitchen 33 Rally for TSA Workers. When TSA agents at Richmond International Airport continued reporting to work without pay during the ongoing DHS funding standoff, Richmond’s Morning News host Rich Herrera knew it was time to act.
On-air, Herrera issued a call rooted in something bigger than politics:
“As Americans, we’re self-sufficient—and we step up to help our neighbors in times of need.”
Chris and the team at Kitchen 33 answered the call immediately. In that moment, a partnership was formed—and a community effort took off.
Partners in Action
Rich Herrera and Chris from Kitchen 33 teamed up to deliver more than 100 box lunches to TSA agents—workers who have continued showing up despite missing multiple pay cycles.
Kitchen 33 prepared the meals, going above and beyond to support those on the front lines. But what made the effort truly special was how the Richmond community showed up.
Diners at Kitchen 33 and listeners of WRVA decorated each box—adding children’s artwork, handwritten notes, and messages of gratitude from adults across the area.
Each meal carried more than food.
It carried a message:
We see you. We appreciate you. Richmond stands with you.
A Little Extra for Families
The effort didn’t stop there.
Chris’s aunt went a step further—hand-sewing cloth goodie bags and filling them with more than 35 pounds of chocolate for the children of TSA workers.
It was a small but meaningful way to recognize that the impact of missed paychecks reaches beyond the job—into the homes and families of those who continue to serve.
More Than a Meal
When the lunches were delivered, TSA agents were overwhelmed with gratitude—not just for the meals, but for the support behind them.
What started as a conversation on the radio became something bigger—
a moment of connection between a community and the people who help keep it safe every day.
That’s Richmond. That’s America.
When Washington stalls, Richmond steps up.
It’s what happens when neighbors look out for neighbors.
It’s what local businesses like Kitchen 33 do.
It’s what WRVA listeners do.
And in Richmond—that’s just what we do.
🎙 Hear more on Richmond’s Morning News with Rich Herrera, weekdays 6–10 am on NewsRadio WRVA
🌐 Stream live at WRVA.com
Over 100 box lunches delivered to RIC for TSA Workers
