Many of our Veterans are affected by the ongoing government shutdown. Whether you’re furloughed, working without pay, or supporting someone who is—know this: you’re not alone. Below are verified resources available in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area to help bridge the gap until things stabilize.
1. Food Assistance
Capital Area Food Bank & Partner Sites
Serving DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia federal workers with free groceries during furlough.
Capital Area Food Bank Distribution Info
Locations: Hyattsville MD, North Bethesda MD, Alexandria VA, and others.
2. Unemployment & Furlough Support
If you’re furloughed (not working and not being paid), apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) through your state:
- DC: does.dc.gov/resources-impacted-federal-workers │
(202) 724-7000 - Maryland: response.maryland.gov/federalpublicservants/shutdown
- Virginia: vec.virginia.gov/resources-virginias-former-federal-employees-and-other-workers-impacted-federal-government
3. Financial Relief (Maryland Residents)
For “excepted” employees working without pay:
- MD Federal Shutdown Loan Program – No-interest loan (up to $700).
labor.maryland.gov/federalworkers/shutdownloan - Tax Payment Deferrals – Contact the Maryland Comptroller.
marylandcomptroller.gov/individuals/shutdown.html
4. National Assistance for Federal Employees
- FEEA (Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund) – Emergency hardship loans & grants.
feea.org/shutdown - Partnership for Public Service – National list of shutdown resources.
ourpublicservice.org/shutdown/resources-for-federal-employees
5. Local Relief & Utility Assistance
- Montgomery County, MD: montgomerycountymd.gov/OPI/fed-worker-resources-shutdown.html
- Utilities (BGE, Pepco, Dominion Energy, etc.) – Contact your provider to request “shutdown/furlough support” for payment deferral and fee waivers.
- Credit Unions & Banks – Many are offering low-interest relief loans; check with your local branch.
We know times like this test patience and resilience. Our community was built for moments like these—lean on your network, share information, and keep purpose at the center.
If you would like to donate to our nonprofit Veterans Growing Inc: https://www.zeffy.com/donation-form/donate-to-make-a-difference-2853
Stay connected. Stay encouraged.
Donnell E. Johns Sr.
Founder & CEO, Veterans Growing America
www.veteransgrowingamerica.com
