Government Shutdown Resources

To our local Federal Employees and any who continue to be affected by the recent Government Shutdown –

United Way NWFL, United Way Partner Agencies, Municipal & Business Partners know that our federal employees and community members continue to struggle in the aftermath of the recent Government Shutdown.  In an effort to combat those struggles, we continue to collaborate to best provide assistance to any who may still have unmet needs.  As always, emotional support and community resources are available 24/7 by calling 211. We’re here to support you — check back for new resources and assistance. 

Here because you want to help?
Financial support to purchase food for local food banks can be donated HERE.
Panama City Friends and Neighbors are holding a city wide food drive to support local food banks. Information on where to drop off groceries can be found HERE.

Resources and information for common questions:

Additional Resources:

  • 211 NWFL (covering UWNWFL footprint of Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Washington Co's) can be reached by dialing 2-1-1 or their website HERE.
  • 211.org now has a food assistance resource search function.
  • Feeding the Gulf Coast has compiled a list of food resources and information here.
  • Panama City Rescue Mission provides meals for any who are food insecure from 2pm-4pm Tuesday thru Friday and 6pm on Mondays.
  • The Salvation Army provides a hot meal in the United Way of NWFL parking lot on Tuesdays and Thursdays roughly between 11:30am-1pm.
  • Childcare - Many childcare/aftercare organizations are working with furloughed employees to defer payment. The term for this is likely over now that the shutdown has concluded but check with your provider to see if they can work with you.
  • Emergency/Short Term Loans - Many Banks and Credit Unions offer emergency/short term loans and may be working with furloughed employees.  Reach out to local banks/credit unions to see if you qualify.
  • Utilities - Many of our local cities are working with furloughed employees to prevent loss of utilities. The term for this is likely over now that the shutdown has concluded but check with your local utility department to see if they can work with you.
    • Panama City - (850) 872-3166 (the City of Panama City is also working with SNAP beneficiaries. Documentation required)
    • Panama City Beach - (850) 233-5100
    • Lynn Haven - (850) 265-0087
    • Callaway - (850) 871-6000
    • Parker - (850) 871-4949
    • Blountstown - (850) 674-5488
    • Bonifay - (850) 547-4238
    • Chipley - (850) 638-6350
    • Marianna - (850) 482-4353
    • Port St. Joe - (850) 229-8261

For Military Members:

  • Air Force Aid Society: Air Force Aid Guard and Reserve Air Force and Space Force members (regardless of duty status) and their eligible family members. Click here for more information about grants and Falcon Loans.

  • EANGUS: We Care for America Foundation is a National Guard Relief Foundation that offers grants and loans for Service members (enlisted and officer). Click here for more information.

  • Navy Marine Corps Relief Society: NMCRS stands ready to help meet the immediate needs of active-duty Sailors, Marines and their families impacted by the impending government shutdown. Click here for more information.

  • VFW Unmet Needs Program.  This program is available to help America’s active-duty service members (to include activated Guard/Reserve members) and their families who have run into unexpected financial difficulties because of deployment or other military-related activity or injury. The program provides financial assistance up to $2,500 to assist daily necessities in the form of a grant – not a loan – so no repayment is required. To further ease the burden, we pay the creditor(s) directly. Click here for more information.