United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of everyone in our community.
United Way supports community resources that help our neighbors in need every day. While government shutdown may be temporary, it can cause lasting damage on both government workers and on those accessing government services. The longer a shutdown lasts, the greater the impact on children and families in need.
Click here to make a donation to support the United Way Community Fund, your donation provides important community services including food, shelter, youth services and more to people in need in our community, every day.
Resources:
Assistance with Rent and Housing
- Housing Assistance:
For those receiving Housing Choice Voucher rental-assistance through U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD will continue to provide funds for February and has contingency plans for March if the shutdown continues. Answers to frequently asked questions regarding federal housing loans and federal guidelines to lenders: https://www.idahohousing.com/blog/federal-government-shutdown-and-idaho-housing/
Discount prescription and over the counter medicines
FamilyWize Discount Drug Service
United Way and FamilyWize have partnered to provide prescription discounts for people in the community. The FamilyWize Prescription Savings Card acts like a reusable coupon, allowing uninsured and underinsured individuals and families to receive discounts on prescription medications. More than 60,000 pharmacies voluntarily provide discounts and savings on medications to FamilyWize card participants. The FamilyWize program has helped 42,000 Treasure Valley residents save nearly $6 million over the past decade.
Use the card or download the mobile app. This is a free service. No membership or sign up is required. Use the same number for every member of your family and share with friends. Use the online/mobile app to find the best price for medications you take and to activate discounts on most medications. FamilyWize works for people with and without health insurance. More information here and at familiywize.org
Financial Assistance
The National Active & Retired Federal Employees Association Fund through the Federal Employee Education and Assistance (FEEA) is offering $100 grants for federal employee members. Visit https://fs28.formsite.com/FEEA/narfefurlough/index.html
Food Assistance Locations
To locate food assistance near you enter ‘Food Pantry Near Me’ in your browser search or go to the Idaho Foodbank dedicated page. Food assistance locations are found throughout the area. Hours and days of operation vary.
Idaho Careline
Search from over 11,000 resources to find free or low cost services or resources near you, including rental assistance, energy assistance, medical assistance, food and clothing, child care resources, emergency shelter, and more. Visit their website at www.211.idaho.gov
Short-Term Financial Assistance
Several local Credit Unions and Banks are offering low-cost to no-cost short term financial assistance during the shut-down period. Contact your financial institution to inquire about resources. Be sure to follow these tips to avoid unexpected or costly surprises:
- Ask for a list of all terms and conditions and read them.
- Avoid programs that are not specifically created for Federal workers during the government shut down period.
- Avoid programs that are offered by email, web pop-ups or other unsolicited online tactics.
- Work locally if possible. Visit the financial institution in person.
Telephone and Mobile Devices
Several national service providers have established programs for federal workers who are existing customers. These include: Cable One, Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. Contact your carrier directly to learn what payment options they have for federal employees.
Truly Free Tax Filing Resource
Individuals and households who earn less than $66,000 a year can file their state and federal taxes for free on MyFreeTaxes.com. United Way’s MyFreeTaxes program, in partnership with H&R Block, aims to help people save money on costly tax preparation and filing services. MyFreeTaxes is free, easy to use, and secure. Powered by H&R Block’s tax-filing software, MyFreeTaxes walks you through each part of the process, and makes sure you are aware of tax credits and deductions you may qualify for. This service is very easy to use. You may file your state and federal income tax return on your mobile phone or online.