Military family’s resources are going to be your best friend, as you’ve already faced unique challenges and uncertainties. One such challenge can arise when the government faces a shutdown, disrupting vital resources you may rely on, like your paycheck. While government shutdowns are thankfully not a regular occurrence, it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. In this blog post, we will discuss how military families can access essential resources like loans and grants during a government shutdown.
Here are 5 tips to accessing resources:
Emergency Funds and Savings: Before we delve into specific resources, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of building and maintaining an emergency fund. Military families should strive to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This financial cushion can provide a safety net during uncertain times, such as government shutdowns.
Explore Military Relief Societies: Military relief societies, such as the Army Emergency Relief (AER), Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA), and We Care For America Foundation (Grants and loans for all National Guard members past and present), offer assistance to service members and their families during times of financial crisis. These organizations provide low interest or interest-free loans, grants, and other support services. Contact your nearest relief society for guidance and assistance.
Utilize Military Banks and Credit Unions: Military-focused financial institutions, like USAA and Navy Federal Credit Union, often offer special assistance programs during government shutdowns. These programs may include low-interest loans, penalty-free withdrawals from certificates of deposit (CDs), and financial counseling services. To view Navy Federal’s loan offerings visit this link. To view USAA’s offerings visit this link.
Explore Non-Profit Organizations: There are a ton of Non-Profit Organizations that offer assistance programs to affected military families. Here are some of my top favorites associations for assistance:
Review Government Assistance Programs: While government agencies may be affected by a shutdown, certain assistance programs could still be operational. Programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Medicaid may continue to provide vital support. Contact your local social services office for information on eligibility and application procedures.
Tap into community resources as well like local community organizations and churches. Food banks, utility bill assistance programs, and rent relief initiatives could be available. Check with your local government or community organizations for information on available resources.
Military Family’s Biggest Resource
This next tip won’t be a popular one. And that is communicate with your Chain of Command, In times of government shutdown, it’s essential to maintain open lines of communication with your military command. They may be able to provide guidance on available resources and support programs specific to your branch and location.
Facing a government shutdown as a military family can be challenging, but with proper preparation and awareness of available resources, you can navigate these uncertain times more effectively. Remember to communicate with your chain of command, explore military relief societies, and tap into both military and civilian financial resources to ensure your family’s well-being during such situations. By staying informed and proactive, you can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
If you have any questions about any of the resources provided, I would love to chat. You can reach me here via email.
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