Greenville, S.C. — November 7, 2025 — As the longest federal shutdown in history continues to impact thousands across the Upstate, United Way of Greenville County is expanding relief efforts to help families facing lost income, food insecurity, and mounting bills, right as the holiday season approaches.
Through the Community Relief Fund, United Way of Greenville County is providing immediate and critical assistance to help local families meet their most basic needs. With the community’s support, the organization is helping neighbors manage delayed or reduced SNAP benefits, rent and utility emergencies due to lost federal income, and missed paychecks for furloughed federal workers and contractors.
United Way of Greenville County is working on two fronts — directly assisting individuals and families in crisis with rent, utility, and financial support, and investing in local organizations that are providing essential services like food and emergency aid across the county.
This week, United Way of Greenville County supported a major food distribution effort through Harvest Hope Food Bank, helping provide 50,000 pounds of food, enough to serve an estimated 250 people per day for 30 days. Since October 1, the organization has also provided nearly $23,000 in direct rent and utility assistance to almost 100 individuals, keeping families housed and stable through this difficult time.
“We’re seeing the strain across our community—from families missing paychecks to others waiting longer for benefits to arrive,” said Meghan Barp, President & CEO of United Way of Greenville County. “Our goal is to make sure people can stay in their homes, keep food on the table, and get the support they need to bridge this uncertain period.”
Since the beginning of the shutdown, United Way’s 211 Helpline has coordinated assistance for more than 2,500 requests, connecting community members with essential services like food, rent, and transportation support.
While there’s hope that a resolution may come soon, the need will not disappear overnight. Missed paychecks, deferred bills, and strained household budgets will take time to recover.
“As we move into the holidays, it’s clear that the ripple effects of this shutdown will continue to be felt long after it ends,” Barp added. “This is a time for our community to come together and ensure that every family has what they need—not just for the season, but for the weeks and months ahead.”
Community members, businesses, and organizations can make an immediate difference by donating to the Community Relief Fund at www.unitedwaygc.org/community-relief-fund.