United Way To Aid Local Residents Amid Government Shutdown
As the longest government shutdown in history stretches on, United Way of Southwest Michigan
(UWSM) has formulated a plan to help local residents impacted.
UWSM has launched the Emergency Relief Fund to assist federal employees in Berrien, Cass and
Van Buren counties who may be impacted by the ongoing government shutdown. The fund is
addressing vital needs, such as food, utility assistance, rent, mortgage payments and other basic
needs. The Fund will make it possible for generous individuals and others who want to help.
To contribute to the Fund, visit www.uwsm.org/emergency-relief-fund or text UWSMrelief to
51555. Check payments are accepted as well and can be made out to “United Way of Southwest
Michigan,” referencing “Emergency Relief Fund” in the memo. Checks can be dropped off or
mailed to United Way at 2015 Lakeview Avenue, St. Joseph, MI 49085.
100% of all funds received will directly benefit those impacted.
Anna Murphy, President of UWSM says: “UWSM values the contributions of all federal workers
in our communities who have supported their neighbors through their work and their
philanthropy over the years. UWSM is committed to standing by federal workers impacted by
the government shutdown in their time of need.”
In addition to the Fund, First Church of God in St. Joseph, Cass District Library in Cassopolis, and
the Van Buren County United Way in Paw Paw, are collecting gift cards for federal workers.
Meijer, Walmart and/or gasoline gift cards are preferred.
Drop-off locations:
First Church of God is located at: 2627 Niles Ave., St. Joseph, MI 49085 (Mon. – Thurs. 8:30am –
4:30pm)
Cass District Library is located at: 319 M-62, Cassopolis, MI 49031 (Mon. – Thurs. 9:00am –
8:00pm; Fri. 9:00am – 6:00pm; Sat. 9:00am – 3:00pm)
Van Buren County United Way is located at: 181 W. Michigan Ave., #4,
Paw Paw, MI 49079 (Mon. – Fri. 8:45am – 4:00pm)
If you are a federal worker impacted by the shutdown, please visit
www.uwsm.org/emergency-relief-fund for information on how you can receive services.
2-1-1
United Way is encouraging federal employees in need of social services to contact 2-1-1 for help.
2-1-1 (or 844-875-9211) is a free and confidential service that helps people find the local
resources they need. For a list of resources in southwest Michigan, please visit www.mi211.org
or text your zip code to 898-211 to hear from a specialist.
All federal workers impacted by the shutdown and looking for services can visit
www.uwsm.org/emergency-relief-fund.
ABOUT UNITED WAY
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of
every person throughout our community. We have the influence and relationships to make
sustainable change a reality. By harnessing resources from corporate, nonprofit and public
partners, we provide immediate assistance to our most vulnerable populations while addressing
the root causes of our community's longstanding challenges and changing lives for the better. To
join the fight—through giving, advocacy and volunteering—visit www.uwsm.org.
Contact: Jennifer Tomshack
Marketing & Communications Manager
Jennifer.tomshack@uwsm.org
269-983-3006
