PEARLAND, Texas — As the government shutdown stretches into its 31st day , thousands of federal employees remain either furloughed or working without pay.

Meanwhile, more members of the Greater Houston community are stepping up to help. At Killen’s Barbecue , free barbecue sandwich plates were given to federal workers and their families Friday.

The giveaway is happening at all four Killen’s locations – in Pearland, The Woodlands, Cypress, and the Heights – while supplies last. Federal workers just need to show their government ID.

At the Pearland location , the sounds of cooking filled the air Friday as the team prepared the meals.

“We have barbecue brisket sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, pickles and onions,” Killen’s Barbecue owner Ronnie Killen said. “We have a bunch of me

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