As the private sector steps up to fill gaps left by the government shutdown — along with the looming loss of food assistance benefits — local nonprofit leaders say a seemingly slowing economy is making it harder to keep donations coming in.
Veteran Kelly Mathis was among the United Way Broward volunteers helping with a food distribution in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday.
“The best thing about being a veteran, I want to lend a hand all the time no matter what,” Mathis said. “I am here for the community and to show support.”
United Way Broward is preparing for weekly food distributions if the shutdown continues.
“We’re packing meals for those families and individuals impacted by the government shutdown,” Maria Hernandez, the organization’s chief impact officer, said.
Hernandez said United Way Broward has been fielding a spike in calls from people seeking food assistance — a trend echoed by Pastor Emily Jazombek of the United Church of Christ in Fort Lauderdale.
“A percentage of the folks that we see do have jobs and are concerned as to whether or not they’re going to continue to be able to hold their job and pay their rent,” Jazombek said. “Some are concerned that their families will have to live in cars.”
Set against the backdrop of a slowing job market, high housing costs and grocery prices, and federal job cuts alongside private sector layoffs following weak retail sales — the government shutdown has compounded the strain.
