United Way Treasure Valley Find Help Idaho

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.

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