October 29, 2025 | Lakes and Prairie United Way is closely monitoring the effects of the current federal government shutdown and its impact on families across our region in Minnesota. One of the most pressing concerns continues to be food access due to a pause in funding for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Across our five-county region: Douglas, Otter Tail, Pope, Todd, and Wadena, more than 10,700 individuals rely on SNAP benefits to help meet their monthly nutritional needs. With uncertainty surrounding federal funding, local households are already feeling the strain, and community organizations are preparing for increased demand for support.
“When essential programs are disrupted, families who are already walking a fine line between stability and crisis can quickly find themselves in difficult situations,” said Jen Jabas, Executive Director of Lakes and Prairie United Way. “We are working closely with our community partners to make sure immediate needs are met and that resources remain available for those who need them most.”
Our mission is grounded in building Community Resiliency, helping individuals and families prepare for, withstand, and recover from crises that disrupt everyday life. While we cannot predict every challenge, we can prepare and respond together.
Here’s how we are staying proactive:
- Supporting food security initiatives happening across our region.
- Maintaining an updated directory of local food and emergency resources through 211 and community partnerships.
- Coordinating with county officials and partner agencies to identify emerging needs and respond quickly to prevent gaps in services.
- Activated our United Way Community Resiliency Fund to help meet urgent local needs if federal or state assistance is delayed or limited. The fund will be used to invest in UW programs.
How You Can Help
If you are in a position to help strengthen our community’s safety net, please consider a contribution to the Community Resiliency Fund.
Your gift ensures that when our neighbors face uncertainty, Lakes and Prairie United Way, and the network of community partners we work alongside can respond swiftly and effectively to meet immediate needs.
