United Way Suncoast Resource Hub Assists Government Workers Impacted by Federal Shutdown
Nonprofit ready to connect workers to food, childcare and temporary jobs
WHAT: As the federal government shutdown continues for a third week and missed paychecks begin to strain household budgets, United Way Suncoast (UWS) is galvanizing its network of nonprofit partners to coordinate services and expand access points to residents in Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto Counties. All Faiths Food Bank, Caring Collective, Women’s Resource Center, Goodwill Manasota and CareerSource Suncoast are among the nonprofits meeting on a regular basis to raise awareness of available programs and determine specific strategies to support federal employees
Help for federal employees or contractors is just a phone call away by dialing 2-1-1 for emotional support and community resources, or by visiting United Way Suncoast’s online Government Shutdown Resources hub. The website organizes county-by-county services, including food assistance, mobile pantries, childcare support via Early Learning Coalitions, utility payment options, temporary employment and re-employment services, and financial assistance..
WHY IT MATTERS: With paychecks disrupted, families across the Suncoast are facing furloughs and acute financial stress. UWS connects people to trusted local partners, ensuring residents in Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties can find nearby assistance quickly.
RESOURCES AVAILABLE NOW (Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties):
• Food assistance and mobile pantries through United Way Suncoast partners, including All Faiths Food Bank.
• 211 Suncoast Cares Help Line for 24/7 connection to local services, including emotional support. Workers may also utilize the Caring Collective and the Women’s Resource Center.
• Childcare assistance via local Early Learning Coalitions for eligible families working without pay.
• Temporary employment through Goodwill Manasota.
• Re-employment assistance from CareerSource Suncoast.
Utilities & public services guidance, including how to request payment arrangements or extensions.
• Financial assistance information from participating credit unions.
For a complete list of resources, visit the Resource Hub at Resource hub: www.unitedwaysuncoast.org/government-shutdown-resources/
INTERVIEWS: United Way Suncoast leaders and program staff are available to discuss how to access help now and how the community can support impacted workers.
About United Way Suncoast
United Way Suncoast mobilizes communities to action for all. We give families and community members across our five-county footprint the “Freedom To Rise.” Founded in 1924, we enter our second century of service with a decided focus on uniting the region to generate support for hard-working families that stand one unexpected expense away from dire circumstance. We elevate early learning, energize middle school and high school youths and empower community members through financial security. We proudly serve Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota and DeSoto counties by investing in services and programs that help people create the lives they imagine for themselves. We enhance the community by addressing emerging needs such as natural disasters, and we expand the capacity of our nonprofits to help our impact ripple through the region. Along the way, we lead, convene and collaborate with corporate supporters, individual donors, nonprofit partners and valued volunteers because we know – United We Rise, United We Win.