United News Special Edition: Government Shutdown

United We Stand with Our Neighbors in Need

United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut is committed to providing opportunities for every child and every family to succeed. For decades, we have worked together with our partners to ensure that people’s basic needs are met during tough times.

As the federal government shutdown continues, we know that more individuals and families in our region are experiencing tough times right now. Let’s work together to ensure that all have what they need to cover the basics. Our Neighbors in Need Emergency Assistance Fund will people in our community during and after the government shutdown by providing healthy food, rental and utility assistance.

Stand with your neighbors. Donate today

In addition to our local efforts, United Way Worldwide announced that it is leading the formation of the United for U.S. coalition, a joint effort by corporate partners, organized labor, the United Way network and nonprofits to assist furloughed federal workers and others impacted by the ongoing government shutdown. If you have colleagues, constituents, family or friends affected by the shutdown in other parts of the country, check here for updates on the coalition’s progress.

United with Organized Labor

As part of its long-standing association with the labor movement, United Way is also working with a number of organizations, including the AFL-CIO, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) and the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), to distribute information on resources available to assist with needs and living expenses.

United Way Prepared for Calls to 2-1-1

In Connecticut, our United Way 2-1-1 will anchor United Way’s community support by providing information about local health and human services, including the availability of basic needs such as food and utilities, public benefits and corporate assistance programs. Read on for a comprehensive list of resources with everything from unemployment insurance and financial assistance to pet supplies and legal aid. Learn More

February SNAP Benefits to be Issued Early

The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) recently announced that February SNAP Benefits will be issued no later than Sunday, January 20, 2019. Learn More

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

The IRS will begin processing tax returns on January 28, regardless of the shutdown. The Treasury Department funds are paid out of a ‘permanent, indefinite appropriation’ that is not affected by the shutdown. Federal workers impacted by the shutdown who will be eligible for a tax refund should file their taxes as quickly as they can. Individuals affected by the shutdown are encouraged to have their taxes prepared for free through VITA instead of using a paid preparer.

Book Your Appointment: Dial 2-1-1 and press 3 and then 6 or visit https://uwc.211ct.org/taxhelp/

Furlough Guidance

Additional information about unemployment benefits for furloughed employees is available from the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Learn More

KEEP CONNECTED

As the federal government shutdown continues to affect members of our community, follow @unitedwayinc on social media for the latest updates on services available for local children and families.