I’m sure by now you are all familiar with the government shutdown. If not, it may be time to read a newspaper or turn on the TV (get with the program people). For most of us, the shutdown (so far) has only affected tourist plans – our fanny-pack wearing dreams crushed by closed national monuments and museums, as well as overall less consumer confidence. Boo.

But furloughed government employees have felt the more immediate effects of the government shutdown. Fortunately, businesses are responding in-kind with benefits and deals for these folks.

Boston Market announced in a release that the chain is serving whole chickens for free (with the purchase of a family meal) to all federal employees and military personnel with a valid government ID, which will be in effect “in more than 460 Boston Market locations nationwide.”

The chickens will be given away from October 6 to October 13. George Michel, CEO of Boston Market, stated in the release that “government employees and our servicemen and women have been some of our best customers over the years, and we appreciate all that they do for our country.” He went on to explain that “extending this offer to them is a little something we can do to give them a break during a stressful time.”

I commend the Boston Market restaurant chain for their efforts during hard times. Perhaps it’s nothing more than a smart PR move, but nonetheless a move that will get people (particularly government employees) into their restaurants.

To find your nearest Boston Market located check here.