Whole Foods Market, the latest retailer to offer government shutdown specials, has invited shoppers in on Sunday for a free spaghetti dinner.
"With no end in sight to the government shutdown, wanted to pass along what Whole Foods Market is planning to do to help in the community," Katie Malloy, a spokeswoman for the grocer, said in an email. "Because federal workers are not just customers -- they're neighbors, partners, family and friends."
Malloy says Whole Foods is offering more free samples, Wi-Fi and seating to encourage consumers, furloughed or not, to gather at the stores.
The chain plans a free family spaghetti dinner from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Sunday at all Whole Foods stores in Maryland, Virginia and Washington. The dinner is open to everyone. Here's the menu: spaghetti with marinara sauce, salad, dinner roll and bottled water. (buttered pasta for kids) All servings will be individual portions, while supplies last.
On Thursday, Sam's Club announced it is waiving membership fees for military personnel and retirees and their families during the government shutdown after dozens of commissaries on military bases were closed.
"Whole Foods Market is also encouraging people to get out and enjoy other local businesses that could use some support," Malloy said in the email.