When the federal government announced Sunday that SNAP benefits would not be issued in November, United Way of Galveston moved quickly to help the community prepare. Our mission is to connect those who need help to those who can help, and that work becomes especially important in times of uncertainty.

Families across Galveston County rely on food assistance and other basic supports. A disruption in federal benefits creates immediate pressure on households and on the local organizations that serve them. Recognizing that, United Way of Galveston reached out to local partners and began coordinating a shared response to ensure families could continue to access help.

Working together with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, the Galveston County Food Bank, Galveston Urban Ministries, MI Lewis Social Service Center, and St. Vincent’s House, United Way helped bring attention to this issue and strengthen the network of support available to residents. This collaboration led to a front-page story in The Galveston County Daily News that highlights how local nonprofits (and our local newspaper) are working together to meet the needs of the community.

Through our 2-1-1 Texas helpline, anyone can connect with food, housing, and other essential services. The service is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day in multiple languages and formats.

United Way of Galveston promotes 2-1-1 because it benefits both residents and organizations. It ensures families can find help quickly and helps reduce unnecessary calls to local agencies. It also allows us to effortlessly and anonymously track referrals and better understand what needs are emerging and where. That information helps organizations adjust programs, strengthen collaboration, and make a stronger case for future funding.

If your organization provides community services, please make sure your information in 2-1-1 is current using this link.

If you or someone you know needs help, call 2-1-1 to be connected with resources available right here in Galveston.

To support this coordinated effort, consider donating to United Way of Galveston or one of our partner organizations. Together, we can ensure that help remains within reach for every family in our community.

United Way of Galveston continues to serve as a convener and connector, helping local organizations respond together when new challenges arise and ensuring that help is always available close to home. Together, we are raising awareness and leveraging our resources to connect those who need help to those who can help.