As the federal government shutdown continues to strain families across the region, the United Way of Central Maryland (UWCM) has launched a new initiative — the “United For Good: Community Relief Fund” — to provide immediate and long-term support for residents, nonprofits, and essential service providers.
Jumpstarted by a leadership donation from Dr. Freeman and Jackie Hrabowski, the fund will deliver emergency assistance, bolster local nonprofits overwhelmed by increased demand, and expand United Way’s 211 Helpline, which connects callers to food, housing, and financial aid resources across the region.
“We’ve always trusted United Way’s drive and tenacity to tackle this region’s most immediate challenges,” said Dr. Freeman A. Hrabowski, III, president emeritus of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. “We’re calling on others to join us to provide the help that’s needed right now.”
Addressing a Growing Crisis
The shutdown’s effects have hit Central Maryland particularly hard. Thirty-four percent of Maryland’s federal employees live in the region, and nearly 40 percent of households statewide cannot make ends meet, according to the 2025 ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report. More than 692,000 Marylanders depend on SNAP benefits, which are now expected to be reduced by 50 percent.
The result, United Way leaders say, is an urgent and widening crisis: households with limited or no income, nonprofits at capacity, and families forced to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table.
“This is when we all need to join together,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “We excel at mobilizing the caring power of our community, and now we need that collective strength more than ever. This fund ensures that no one faces this shutdown—or any emergency—alone.”
Expanding Relief and Community Support
The Community Relief Fund is part of United Way’s century-long commitment to serving Central Maryland. The organization currently operates rental assistance and food distribution programs, including Howard County’s Rental Assistance Program for Seniors and a forthcoming initiative for Baltimore City residents.
Other core United Way programs include:
- Family Centers, which provide affordable childcare and resources to help parents work and finish school.
- Young Men United (YMU), connecting young men of color with mentors, college prep, and financial support.
- The Family Stability Program, offering rental and case management assistance to prevent homelessness.
United Way has also partnered with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management to connect volunteers with organizations in need through an online portal. Nonprofits can post requests for help at uwcm.org/nonprofitmd, while residents can sign up to volunteer at uwcm.org/volunteermd.
How to Help
Residents and businesses can contribute to the United For Good: Community Relief Fund and help provide food, shelter, and emergency assistance to Marylanders in need. Donations can be made at uwcm.org.
For immediate help with basic needs, visit uwcm.org/your211 or access the Resource Guide to Basic Needs in Central Maryland at uwcm.org/resourceguide.
“United is not just our name—it’s how we show up for one another,” Baker added. “We are united for good, for the next 100 years, and for every neighbor who needs a helping hand.”