Extending a Helping Hand to Those Affected by the Shutdown

Across the country, working people are marching and rallying for an immediate end to the government shutdown. Already the longest funding lapse in American history, this manufactured crisis has put the weight of ideological extremism on federal workers and their families. As we continue fighting to reopen the government, the labor movement also is joining together to support our brothers and sisters as they go without a paycheck.

If you have been impacted by the shutdown, there are a number of resources available to you. We are engaging a network of United Way/AFL-CIO labor liaisons and labor-associated community service organizations across the country to organize support; furloughed workers can call 2-1-1 to talk to a live, trained professional to find support and identify critical services.

Additionally, as a union member, you may be able to access a range of Union Plus benefits, including a $300 furlough grant, mortgage assistance, credit counseling, personal loans, auto insurance, and life and accident insurance.

Other resources available to those affected by the shutdown include:

• Surviving the Government Shutdown: A guide provided by the Community Services Agency of the Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO.
• Money Management International and UnionPlus' presentation: When  the Income Decreases but the Bills Don’t: Financial Help During and After Furlough.
• United Way partner Familywize offers a pharmacy discount card, whether or not you have health insurance.
• Furloughed employees may be eligible for unemployment compensation. The requirements vary by state, so visit your individual state office's website.
• Utility companies around the country have announced programs to assist workers affected by the shutdown. Contact your local utility company for more details.
• Veterans can apply for financial assistance through the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars.