As the government shutdown extends into its third week, communities across Utah are feeling the impact, with vital support services being suspended and resources running low. Many individuals and families are struggling to meet their basic needs, prompting local organizations to rally for assistance.
Amy Nelson, chief steward for the National Treasury Employees Union Chapter 17, representing approximately 2,000 employees in Utah, voiced the urgency of the situation. “There’s a lot of families in need right now. It’s a tough time,” she remarked. The year had already been challenging, with layoffs occurring before the shutdown took effect.
In response to the pressing needs of employees, the union established three food pantries in April 2025, located in Ogden and Salt Lake City. Unfortunately, access to these pantries has been restricted during the shutdown. Nelson shared the concern of a coworker who sought entry to obtain food for her grandson, only to be met with locked doors. “We were told to go home and don’t come back until you hear it on the news that the shutdown is over,” she explained.
Community Support Efforts Stalled
In Provo, the city’s HEAT program, which provides essential utility assistance, has been suspended due to the ongoing shutdown. Amanda Ercanbrack, Provo’s customer service director, noted that the program typically funds around 470 requests annually, amounting to approximately $185,000 last year. “That’s a lot of people in Provo who need assistance, who will no longer be able to apply for that,” she stated.
Ercanbrack mentioned that while the city has partnered with Community Action, their donation funds have also been depleted. She urged residents to step up and support their neighbors, particularly those who have been furloughed or are without work. “These people do need assistance,” she emphasized.
As the shutdown continues, both Ercanbrack and Nelson highlighted that any donation, regardless of size, can have a significant impact on those struggling during this difficult time. The community’s response has been critical, with local organizations and residents coming together to provide support where it is needed most.
The ongoing situation underscores the broader challenges posed by the shutdown, as many individuals and families find themselves without the resources they depend on. With programs suspended and access to necessary services restricted, the call for community assistance has never been more urgent.
