Standing Together in the Midst of a Shutdown

We are currently living through a federal government shutdown — a challenging, uncertain time for every military family. Service members must continue to serve and report to duty, but paychecks may be delayed until Congress restores funding. 

This disruption ripples into many parts of daily life: on‐base services may be reduced or closed, voluntary programs may pause, and civilian support staff may be furloughed. 

It’s more important than ever that we support one another—and act intentionally—to ease the burden.

What We Can Do: Practical Ways to Support One Another

In times like this, community matters deeply. Here are meaningful ways we can lean on each other:

• Check in regularly. A text, a call, or a social media message can remind someone they’re not alone.

• Share meals and essentials. Organize meal trains, grocery sharing, or bulk-buying groups to stretch resources.

• Swap childcare & mutual aid. With base childcare hours or programs possibly scaled back, offer to watch a friend’s kids or coordinate babysitting circles.

• Offer emotional support & listening. The stress and anxiety will mount—sometimes people just need someone to vent to or cry with.

• Pool resources. If you have extra pantry food, items, or gift cards, consider sharing them discreetly with families in tougher spots.

• Spread awareness & information. When you see verified resources or help offers, share them in spouse groups, social media, and your local network.

• Pray, encourage, uplift. For those in spiritual communities, praying for one another, writing notes, and sending encouragement can lift hearts in dark days.

What We Know: Resources Available Right Now

These are some active, known support options for military families during this shutdown. Be sure to check eligibility and terms, and reach out early because application processes or funding may be limited.

Resource	What It Offers	Notes & Eligibility
Navy Federal’s Paycheck Assistance Program	Loans / assistance for affected members	If your direct deposit is into Navy Federal, you may register for assistance.
USAA Shutdown Aid	No-interest loans for qualifying members	USAA has prepared financial assistance (loans, relief) for accounts impacted by the shutdown.
Army Emergency Relief (AER)	Interest-free loans and emergency grants	Increased support for soldiers and their families during the shutdown.
Service Branch Relief Societies (e.g. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Air Force Aid Society, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance)	Grants, loans, basic assistance	These organizations specialize in serving military families in crisis.
Military OneSource / DOD Support Services	Counseling, information, referrals	Always available, and they remain a critical touchpoint during disruptions.
Veterans Affairs / VA Services	Continuation of medical & benefit services	VA medical centers, benefit payments (compensation, pension, housing) will continue, though some regional offices and programs may be limited.
SNAP / Food Assistance & WIC	Nutrition assistance	Some programs like WIC may run out of funding quickly during a shutdown.
Community & Nonprofit Organizations	Emergency aid, food, grants	Groups like Operation Homefront, American Red Cross, VFW, Veterans’ networks, and more often step in during crises.

Preparing for a Prolonged Shutdown

Because we do not know how long this will last, here are steps we can take right now to shore up stability:

1. Reassess your budget. Focus on absolute essentials—housing, utilities, food—and pause nonessential spending.

2. Talk to your bank / credit union. Many institutions are offering zero-interest loans or special relief programs to military members. 

3. Document your needs. If you’ll need to apply for assistance, start gathering pay stubs, direct deposit records, proof of military service, etc.

4. Apply early for aid. Don’t wait until crisis point—submit applications now to relief agencies or financial assistance programs.

5. Build small reserves. If possible, stock up on nonperishable food, essential household items, and medications.

6. Know your rights and policies. For example, soldiers will receive back pay once funding returns (per the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act & past precedent). 

7. Seek community-based support. Churches, local nonprofits, and base support groups may be mobilizing mutual aid or emergency funds.

8. Watch for official updates. Monitor base announcements, DOD communications, Relief Society updates, and trusted news sources for evolving resources or deadlines.

A Message of Hope & Solidarity

We are in a hard season—one that many didn’t anticipate—but the strength of our military family lies in unity, compassion, and persistence. Even if resources are stretched, every kind word, every meal shared, every encouraging message matters more than ever.

If your family is in immediate crisis—facing eviction, unable to feed children, or needing emergency aid—reach out. No one should suffer in silence. Use the resources above, lean on your local support networks, and let us know how Deployed Love can further assist or share your need.

We will get through this together. Because when one of us is strained, we all carry one another.