The United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes is stepping up to help thousands of families struggling with food insecurity as the federal government shutdown stretches into its sixth week.
The organization announced it is distributing $250,000 from its United Response Fund to Foodlink, the regional food bank that supports more than 300 food pantries across a six-county region, including Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties. The new funding comes on top of a $184,000 contribution made earlier this fall to help Foodlink prepare for federal policy changes affecting nutrition assistance programs.
United Way leaders say the funding will help Foodlink meet surging demand for food assistance, as many families lose access to federal benefits or face delays in receiving them.
“Mobilizing resources during times of crisis is core to our work,” said Jaime Saunders, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. “The federal government shutdown is the latest crisis to land on our doorstep, and we are taking immediate action to support our neighbors by partnering with Foodlink.”
United Way says it is also preparing for additional service disruptions in healthcare, housing, and other critical programs impacted by the ongoing shutdown. The organization is working closely with local government officials and nonprofit partners to coordinate a regional response and maintain essential community services.
“As federal and state policy shifts take effect, nonprofit partners and the individuals they serve will face new and complex challenges,” Saunders said. “Our region is in a moment of significant disruption and preparing for heightened community need in 2026.”
United Way’s United Response Fund, supported by its Community Impact Fund, is designed to address both immediate needs and anticipated future impacts on the region’s most vulnerable residents.
Community members can continue to support relief efforts through donations to the United Response Fund, which helps:
- Strengthen communication and access to essential services
- Support nonprofits facing funding or contract delays
- Assist organizations at risk of closure or transition
- Respond to other emerging needs identified through ongoing community assessments
More information and donation options are available at United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes’ website.
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