SALT LAKE CITY — As the federal government shutdown drags into its fourth week, more Utah families are turning to emergency aid programs to make ends meet. New data from United Way of Utah reveals a steep increase in calls for food, rent, and utility assistance — a sign of deepening strain across the state.
At the Ladies of Charity Center of Hope Food Pantry in North Salt Lake, volunteers say the surge in demand is overwhelming. Even as closing time approaches, families continue arriving, searching for basics like canned tuna, chicken, and beans to get through the week.
“Very, very, very stressed. Lots of anxiety,” said Keisha Shelton, one of many Utahns trying to stretch her limited funds. “It’s very scary. If you don’t have money saved, you’re kind of out of luck.”
Another shopper, Lorie Winfrey, gestured toward the nearly bare shelves. “It’s pretty rough. It’s scary. Look around — you know, it’s bare,” she said.
Assistance Requests Rising Across the State
At United Way’s 211 Service Navigation Center, which connects Utahns with local resources, phone lines have been ringing nonstop. The latest figures show dramatic jumps in basic needs requests since the shutdown began:
- Utility assistance: up 41%
- Rental assistance: up 28%
- Food assistance: up 11%
“It is a big increase,” said Patrick McIntyre, United Way’s Chief Development and Communications Officer. “The time to take action is now. We’re really calling on everyday Utahns, philanthropy, and the business community to step up — to contribute to the United Way 211 Emergency Relief Fund.”
Shutdown’s Economic Impact Deepens
The ripple effects of the shutdown are widespread. According to state estimates:
- Nearly 40,000 federal employees in Utah are currently unpaid, including workers from key agencies like the IRS, TSA, and Forest Service.
- About 86,000 families have lost access to food assistance benefits, straining both households and local nonprofits.
Combined, more than 100,000 Utah households are feeling direct financial pressure — from missed paychecks to delayed benefits — with ripple effects hitting food banks, shelters, and community programs.
How to Get Help or Give Support
Utahns in need can call 211, United Way’s 24/7 hotline, to get connected with services for food, housing, and utilities in their local area.
For those looking to help, donations to the United Way 211 Emergency Relief Fund can be made through UW.org, and volunteers are encouraged to assist at food pantries and shelters statewide.
“The need is real, and it’s urgent,” McIntyre said. “But Utah has a strong spirit of community. When we come together, we can help our neighbors get through tough times like this.”
