As some federal government employees go without a second paycheck, Pennsylvania Labor Movement, United Way and PA 2-1-1 launch emergency response system for furloughed federal workers
(HARRISBURG) Through PA 2-1-1, the United Way of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO, and the American Federation of Government Employees District 3, have launched a text code initiative which will provide information and updates aimed to help impacted workers cope with the shutdown. This service will connect federal government employees and contractors who are impacted by the partial federal government shutdown to community resources such as assistance with food, utilities, housing, etc. launching an initiative today to support. This initiative will be available throughout the shutdown.
Beginning Friday, January 18, people should text FEDSD to 898-211 to receive updates and information through 2-1-1 via text. The text code will be active throughout the shutdown. When FEDSD is texted to 898-211 it will direct subscribers to specific resources and how to connect with a 2-1-1 center if their need is urgent. 2-1-1 is a 24/7/365 service that connects people to community organizations who can help with their health and human service needs.
Statewide and/or regional resources are also being collected by this coalition and are available on the Government Shutdown Resources web page.
“The Pennsylvania Labor Movement is working with our community partners to rally around our brothers and sisters impacted by the government shutdown. This text code is one more way of making sure they receive the help they need. The Pennsylvania AFL-CIO encourages union members across the Commonwealth to volunteer with their local food banks and central labor councils,” remarked PA AFL-CIO President Rick Bloomingdale.
“The federal workers and contracted employees hit by this partial federal government shutdown, are working class people with families to support. Unions and community service organizations are coming together to ensure that they are not alone in this crisis,” added PA AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Frank Snyder.
“We are so appreciative of the organizations assisting federal employees in this difficult time. Making these resources available through text, makes access easier and faster for our members,” American Federation of Government Employees, National Vice President for District 3, Philip Glover.
“United Way and 2-1-1 strive to make it easy for Pennsylvanians to find help from their community when they need it. We are happy to be of service in a time of need for thousands who are impacted in our state, and we want to thank our partners in labor and the many nonprofits and companies who are stepping up to do what they can to help. 2-1-1 is committed to be here for impacted employees through the duration of the shutdown,” Kristen Rotz, President of United Way of PA, concluded.
Media Contact:
Kristen Rotz, krotz@uwp.org, 717.448.1663
Samantha Shewmaker, sshewmaker@paaflcio.org, 717.917.0538