St. Joseph community supports Coast Guard amid shutdown

ST. JOSEPH, Mich – The St. Joseph community is rallying behind each other to help those stationed in the U.S. Coast Guard post in St. Joseph station make ends meet during the partial government shutdown. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has approximately 30 families stationed at the St. Joseph post that will not be paid during the partial government shutdown. 

“If we’re not going to get paid making those everyday bills is probably going to struggle,” St. Joseph resident and military spouse Valerie Gehrke said.  

Gehrke says she has already made adjustments but it's easier said than done.  

“Us, even myself are making arrangements, delaying things that might cost more than normal,” Gerkhe said.  

So-far people in the community have donated money, gift cards, and other necessities. 

Anyone interested in donating to assist the Coast Guard can do so through the Coast Guard mutual assistance.