As of October 1, 2025, the United States Congress was unable to reach an agreement on a budget 
for fiscal year 2026, resulting in a government shutdown impacting approximately 750,000 
employees nationwide — among them more than 100,000 in the Pacific Northwest and roughly 
11,000 in Idaho. This lapse in funding halts many federal operations — including the disbursement 
of grants and payments that sustain essential programs and services (SNAP, essential housing 
assistance, etc.) relied upon by millions of Americans. 
 
United Way is deeply concerned about the serious implications this shutdown has on individuals, 
families, and communities — particularly those already struggling to make ends meet. ALICE 
households — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — are especially at risk, making up 
41% of households in Idaho. These are working families who can’t afford basic needs. When 
government systems pause, community needs do not. 
 
We know the government shutdown is creating uncertainty for many families. Support is available 
for those in need of essential health and human services, and United Way of Treasure Valley 
remains steadfast in our commitment to helping our communities through this challenging time. 
 
If you or someone you know has been affected by the shutdown, there are several ways to get 
support and connect with essential food, housing, utility, health, and mental health resources: 
 
To search and connect with thousands of local resources online, visit findhelpidaho.org, a 
service provided by United Ways of Idaho. 
 
To speak with someone who can help you navigate available resources, dial 211 to connect 
to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare CareLine.  
 
We will continue to work alongside our partners to ensure that those impacted by the shutdown --
including federal employees, contractors, and families relying on federally funded programs — can 
access the resources and support they need. 
 
Our United Way network is an essential part of the nation’s safety net, and we will continue to stand 
as a source of hope, unity, and action for the individuals and communities who need it most. 

findhelpidaho.org 
findhelpidaho.org is free, confidential, easy to use, and provides up-to-date information in more 
than 100 languages. This service provided by United Ways of Idaho connects Idahoans to over 
4,500 programs. Go to findhelpidaho.org and enter your zip code to find local programs that can 
provide immediate support. 
 
Idaho 211 CareLine 
The 211 Idaho CareLine is a free, statewide community information and referral service, and is a 
program of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Simply dial 211 or 800-926-2588 or text 
898211 to be connected to a 211 community resource specialist Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 
p.m. MST.

Boise, Idaho — November 3, 2025 — The Idaho Botanical Garden invites the Treasure Valley community to experience one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions as Winter Garden aGlow returns for its 29th season. From late November through December, the Garden will sparkle with more than 850,000 lights, transforming its winter landscape into a glowing celebration of joy, community, and connection. 
What began nearly three decades ago as a small neighborhood event has grown into one of Boise’s signature seasonal experiences and the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting plant conservation, education, and community programs throughout the year. 
“Every light tells a story — of the people who visit, the memories made, and the community that keeps this tradition shining,” said Erin Anderson, Executive Director of the Idaho Botanical Garden. “Winter Garden aGlow isn’t just about lights; it’s about supporting a place that connects people to nature and to one another all year long.” 
New in 2025 
This year’s Winter Garden aGlow introduces several fresh experiences that invite guests to see the Garden in a new light: 

• Yuletide Bar – new this year, replacing the former Snow Globe Bar, this cozy lodge-inspired venue offers festive drinks and a warm retreat amid the glow. 
• Silent Disco – dance under the lights with wireless headphones in the lively Disco Snowman area. 
• Lighted Hula Hoops – interactive fun for kids and adults alike. 
• Jerome the Gnome Scavenger Hunt – a whimsical search for hidden gnomes throughout the Garden, perfect for families and returning guests. 
• Unique displays and photo opportunities 

Returning Favorites 
Guests will once again delight in the event’s most cherished displays, including: 

• Candy Cane Forest and Gumdrop Grove, sweetly themed pathways filled with color and wonder. 
• Gingerbread House Exhibit, a community-built display celebrating creativity and holiday spirit. 
• Santa’s North Pole Gathering Place, where families can meet Santa on select nights and drop off letters to the North Pole. 
• The Garden Store, or the Stocking Stuffer Station as it is known, filled with unique, nature-inspired gifts, holiday décor, and locally made treasures, with every purchase supporting the Garden’s mission. Garden Membership gift certificates will also be available 
• And back after a hiatus, the Trains, a long-awaited favorite returns, winding through the twinkling displays once again. 

 
Lighting the Way Forward 
As the Garden’s largest annual fundraiser, Winter Garden aGlow directly supports educational programming, sustainable horticulture, and community events year-round. The event embodies the Idaho Botanical Garden’s mission to connect people, plants, and place, and to celebrate the natural beauty that thrives even in winter. 
“Winter Garden aGlow has become a Boise tradition because it reminds us what’s possible when a community invests in something lasting,” said Anderson. “Each visit helps ensure the Garden continues to grow, inspire, and give back all year long.” 
​
About Idaho Botanical Garden  
Located in the heart of Boise, the Idaho Botanical Garden cultivates a love of nature through plant collections, education, art, and community events. The Garden serves as a living museum and a gathering space that inspires connection to the natural world. Learn more at https://www.idahobotanicalgarden.org/.