Michael Johnson, an out-of-work Federal Aviation Administration employee, enjoyed a free lunch with his wife Thursday at DownTown PUBlic restaurant in Murrieta.
For Johnson, it's a much-needed act of kindness during a financially difficult time, especially since he will miss a second paycheck Friday.
"We just thought it was the greatest thing for a small business to be doing something like this," he said.
Restaurant owners Kimm and Gerry Kent are giving free meals to furloughed workers and their immediate family members during the government shutdown.
"It's been a great personal reminder of how rewarding it can be to help someone," Gerry said.
Johnson said he's always paid off bills on time.
Added Kimm: "How is this OK in the United States of America? It makes no sense."
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Kimm and Gerry admit the free meals are costing them a lot of money, but to them it's worth it.
"A nice dinner with your family, glass of wine, talk about your day, instead of sitting at a table worrying about your bills, I think it's a small thing to offer people," Kimm said.
