United Way of the Coastal Empire, in partnership with local community organizations, has compiled a list of resources to help residents across the five-county area access food and other essential support during the government shutdown. The list, which will be updated regularly, is available at uwce.org/211.

“When you’re in a crisis, it can be difficult to know where to go for help,” said Kimberly Waller, president and CEO of United Way of the Coastal Empire. “That’s where we come in. United Way connects people to organizations and resources, helping ensure families can access the support and services they need to thrive.”

United Way encourages those wishing to help to consider three immediate ways to make an impact:

1. Donate to local food banks, which are facing increased demand.

2. Donate directly to United Way’s Emergency Support Fund to help provide assistance to local families in need. Contributions can be made at give.uwce.org/p/emergency-support-fund.

3. Share additional community resources to be included in our list by emailing Cheri Dean, vice president of direct services and impact, at cdean@uwce.org.

Individuals in need of assistance can visit uwce.org/211, email 211@uwce.org, or dial 211 to connect with United Way’s information and referral specialists. 211 is a free, confidential service provided by United Way of the Coastal Empire to ensure every person in the community has access to the best resources available.

Generous contributions from Gulfstream, the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, Savannah Economic Development Authority, Bob and Cecilia Turner of the Pirates’ House and The Cotton Exchange Tavern on River Street, and Roly Poly have enabled United Way to provide emergency funding and other support where gaps exist. United Way of the Coastal Empire will continue to collaborate with nonprofit partners throughout the region to coordinate a unified response to the evolving situation.