Airbnb Offers Program For MD Federal Workers Impacted By Shutdown

MARYLAND — As the longest government shutdown in American history continues, Airbnb is offering financial support to affected federal workers.

On Wednesday, the hospitality company launched 'A Night on Us," a program that pays federal executive branch employees an extra $110 for opening their home to guests for three nights. The average per night a U.S. host makes is $110, according to Airbnb.

"[A]nd as the typical U.S. host makes approximately $8,700 a year from sharing their home, we hope this boost will serve to supplement the income government employees already earn from home sharing, helping to address fast emerging financial challenges for the foreseeable future," the company said in a statement.

Eligible participants must be Airbnb hosts who aren't receiving paychecks from their federal employer. Federal workers who host three nights in their home between Dec. 18, 2018 and March 18, 2019 will receive the extra night of income.

Current hosts can apply through an online form. Hosts must provide the federal government agency they work for and their Airbnb host ID number. Airbnb will verify the federal employment status. The application deadline is March 18.