Shutdown Resources

As the federal government shutdown carries on and we miss our paychecks, we understand this creates financial strain and anxiety for many. We encourage our members and other impacted federal employees and contractors to explore the following resources compiled below. Many of these provide avenues to receive financial support (personal loans, delays on utility payments, unemployment insurance, food support) until back pay is provided at the end of this shutdown:

• NASA Shutdown Webpage - NASA guidance, status and resources.
  
• IFPTE Shutdown Webpage - information and resources from our international union.
• Shutdown Assistance Map (SAM) by My Fed benefits, support organized by location and type across the country.
• Layoff or Furlough Assistance from Union Plus -- financial assistance programs available to dues paying GESTA/IFPTE members.
• Government Shutdown Resources for Federal Employees by The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund (FEEA) 
• National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association Shutdown (NARFEA) shutdown frequently asked questions - includes clarification on benefits and leave.
• Thrift Saving Plan Shutdown Information
  
  

Local government and community resources:

MD/DC/VA

• Federal Government Shutdown Resources from MD DC Credit Union Association -- list of regional credit unions providing assistance, and contact list for utility payment assistance.
• MD State Government Shutdown Page: Shutdown resources including unemployment insurances and shutdown loans.
• DC Fed Support Page: Resource page by DC government.
• Capital Area Food bank: Resources specifically for DMV federal employees
• MD Howard County Shutdown Resources
• MD Prince Georges County Shutdown Resources
• MD Montgomery County Resources
• MD Anne Arundel County
• VA Fairfax County Shutdown Resources
• VA Arlington County Shutdown Resources

NY

• NY State Shutdown support page: Unemployment insurance and other resources
• NYC Food bank map

WV 

• WV State Unemployment Insurance
• Marion County Resources
  

We also recommend reaching out directly to your own bank or credit union to understand any options you may have, including any personal loans at favorable terms. In addition, if you are facing difficulties, please do not hesitate to reach out to GESTA directly. We will do our best to find support for you!