The federal government shutdown is hitting close to home. TSA agents at Pensacola International Airport are working without pay, and the financial pressure on their families is mounting. United Way of West Florida is stepping in to make sure workers know help is just three digits away.
211: More Than a Phone Number
United Way of West Florida VP of Impact Services Jessica Johnson joined “We Don’t Color on the Dog” this week to explain how the organization is mobilizing resources across the region.
“We are organizing efforts across our 211 resource line,” Johnson said. “We’ve got support for individuals right here—and we actually extend to 10 total counties, so pretty much the panhandle.”
211 is a free, confidential helpline available 24/7. Callers are connected with trained specialists who assess individual needs and provide personalized referrals to trusted local resources—everything from rent and utility assistance to food, childcare and healthcare.
Real-Time Resources for Real Hardship
What sets 211 apart is how quickly it adapts to changing community conditions. United Way’s call specialists are actively updating the database to reflect what agencies are doing right now, what funds are available and what resources can be tapped immediately.
“When individuals call or go onto our 211 Northwest Florida website, they can see in real time what’s available to them and get the help that they need for themselves and their households,” Johnson said.
That responsiveness is already making a difference. Johnson noted that following media coverage of Mana Food Pantry’s support efforts for TSA workers, United Way received a surge of calls from individuals seeking rent and utility assistance.
A Community That Shows Up
United Way President and CEO Laura Gilliam emphasized the urgency of reaching out before a crisis deepens.
“Situations like this can put a sudden strain on household finances,” Gilliam said. “211 is here to help TSA agents and their families—or anyone else impacted by this shutdown—find the support they need quickly and locally.”
Johnson echoed that message, reminding workers they don’t have to figure this out alone.
“The agencies themselves are doing big work with limited funding,” she said. “But knowing that those resources are available, we can get the people what they need when they need it.”
Pensacola has always rallied when its neighbors are in need, and this moment is no different. United Way is serving as the clearinghouse—gathering partners, coordinating resources and directing people to the right door.
How to Get Help—or Spread the Word
Getting connected is simple. Dial or text 211 from any phone to speak with a live specialist. You can also visit 211nwfl.communityos.org or uwwf.org, where a “Find Help” button is prominently featured. United Way is also active on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok with regular updates.
If you’re not in need yourself, Johnson says the most valuable thing you can do is share the word.
“Honestly, if you would really just put your voice out there and let everybody know that 211 is a resource—that’s how we’re kind of putting together all of the resources available,” she said.
TSA workers keep Pensacola’s skies safe every day. Right now, our community has a chance to keep its families stable.
