ROCKY HILL, CT -- United Way Worldwide recently announced that it will lead 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.
United Way and its community partners are preparing for an expected uptick in calls to 2-1-1 from those seeking assistance with rent and mortgage payments, utility bills and groceries. United for U.S. will address these needs by bringing together United Way's deep community knowledge with organized labor and our corporate partners who want to help those in need during the extended shutdown.
"No organization is better positioned than United Way to bring critical resources together for those who need help. Our reach into every U.S. community and our deep relationships with all sectors allow us to create the safety net that will assist our neighbors maintain the fabric of our communities," said Mary Sellers, U.S. President, United Way Worldwide. "We are thankful for the support of our corporate partners, organized labor and local United Ways, who stand ready to provide vital services to those in need."
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. People impacted by the federal government shutdown- both federal workers and people in need of federal government services are encouraged to contact 2-1-1 by going to www.211ct.org or dialing 2-1-1.
Some of Connecticut's local United Ways are also collaborating with their partners, including labor and corporate partners, to help address needs that may arise due to the federal government shutdown.
About Connecticut United Ways
Connecticut United Ways advance the common good by creating opportunities for all, with a particular focus on education, income/financial security, health, and basic needs - the building blocks for a good quality of life. We engage people and organizations throughout our communities who bring passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done, and we invite everyone to be part of the change.
About 2-1-1 Connecticut
2-1-1 Connecticut is a free health and human service information and referral service, with a continuously updated database of more than 4,000 agencies and 40,000 programs and services. Free, confidential assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year online at 211ct.org and over the phone by dialing 2-1-1. 2-1-1 Connecticut has organizational accreditations from the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS), and the contact center is certified by the American Association of Suicidology for crisis intervention.
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Contact:
Richard J. Porth
CEO
United Way of Connecticut
860-571-7501
Richard.Porth@ctunitedway.org
Website: www.ctunitedway.org