Multiple resources for Alaskans affected by the government shutdown

As the federal government shutdown moves into its third week, Mat-Su residents affected by the shutdown can access financial assistance, food aid, and unemployment benefits through local and statewide organizations.

With connections to solutions for a wide range of needs, Alaska 211, the statewide health and human services help line operated by United Way of Anchorage, stands ready to assist those affected by the ongoing government shutdown find the help they need to make ends meet.

Alaska 211 community resource specialists connect Alaskans to available resources that help with basic needs such as food pantries, health care services, mental health counseling, job training, and much more. Alaska 211 is Calls are free and confidential.

“United Way of Mat-Su also has its own in-depth Mat-Su Resource Guide that provides a comprehensive directory listing of Mat-Su resources for people who are seeking out information on local Mat-Su programs and services,” says United Way of Mat-Su Executive Director Stephanie Allen. The online version of the Mat-Su Resource Guide can be found here: www.makeascene.media/uwms.

“For our neighbors affected by the shutdown, especially those who have not had to reach out for help before, this can be an especially stressful time. Thankfully, those facing challenges can count on Alaska 2-1-1. With a single phone call, Alaskans can connect with a trained and caring 2-1-1 call specialist who will listen and provide referrals to available programs and services best suited to meet those needs,” said Sue Brogan, Chief Operating Officer, United Way of Anchorage.

Alaskans seeking help can connect with Alaska 211 in several ways: call 2-1-1 or (800) 478-2221 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., or visit the 211 online database directly at Alaska211.org. People can also send an email Alaska211@ak.org

In addition, a local credit union offers specific loan programs for furloughed federal employees. The Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union (MVFCU) is currently offering a special "Shutdown Assistance Loan" with a fixed 1.99% APR, 6-month closed-end loan, as well as loan payment relief for members with qualifying consumer loans. On a case-by-case basis, MVFCU may waive fees, allow early withdrawal from share certificates without penalty, and reverse NSF, overdraft protection, and late fee waivers for furloughed federal employees who are members.

The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) is also providing grants and interest-free loans to eligible federal employees who are furloughed or working in an excepted status. FEEA has both an Emergency Hardship Loan program and Shutdown Grants available for qualifying full-time federal civilian employees. It is important to note the differences between the two programs, notably:

-The Emergency Hardship Loan program does not cover pay loss during a government shutdown.

-The Shutdown Grant application is for direct-hire, civilian federal employees who are furloughed or working in excepted status, and whose current federal salary is $59,999 or less, including any locality pay ($75,000 or less for active employee NARFE members). For more information, please visit www.feea.org/shutdown

Federal workers may be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits. Staff can also assist with job searches, resume writing, and career exploration. Please call (888) 252-2557 or visit www.labor.alaska.gov/unemployment/home.htm

Connect Mat-Su is already a resource that can connect residents with financial counseling and other resources to navigate financial challenges, provides resources for job seekers, including access to training and information on unemployment benefits, and help to find resources for food and other basic needs through its database of local providers.

Governor Mike Dunleavy previously directed state departments to continue essential services funded by the federal government wherever possible, using contingency plans to minimize disruptions.