- United Way reports a surge in Utahns seeking help amid the government shutdown.
- Requests for utility rental and food assistance have significantly increased according to data.
- Over 100,000 Utah households are affected with federal employees unpaid and benefits lost.
SALT LAKE CITY — New numbers from United Way show a sharp rise in Utahns seeking emergency help as the federal government shutdown stretches into a fourth week.
At the Ladies of Charity Center of Hope Food Pantry in North Salt Lake, demand is surging, even in the final minutes before closing. Shoppers pick up basics like tuna, chicken and black beans as they try to stretch tight budgets.
"Very, very, very stressed. Lots of anxiety," said shopper Keisha Shelton. "It's very scary. It's like if you don't have money saved, you're kind of out of luck."
Lorie Winfrey, another shopper, echoed the concern.
"It's pretty rough. It's scary," she said, pointing to quickly emptying shelves. "Look around. You know, it's bare."
At United Way's 211 Service Navigation Center, staff said the phones are ringing nonstop. The latest numbers from United Way show:
- Utility assistance requests up 41%
- Rental assistance up 28%
- Food assistance up 11%
"It is a big increase," said Patrick McIntyre, the chief development and communications officer at United Way. "So the time to take action is now. We're really calling on everyday Utahns, philanthropy, the business community, to step up, to contribute to the United Way 211 emergency relief fund."
Across Utah, the shutdown's reach is wide. An estimated 40,000 federal employees in the state are currently not getting paid, and about 86,000 families are losing food benefits, deepening the strain on households and local nonprofits. Taken together, those numbers mean well over 100,000 Utah households are feeling direct effects.
Utahns who need help can call 211 to connect with resources for food, housing and utilities. Those who want to donate* or volunteer can visit UW.org.
*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
