While government funding lapses can create uncertainty, the USO remains steadfast in our mission to strengthen the well-being of the people who serve, ensuring that service members and their families have access to trusted information and essential resources.

Some USO Centers are operating with extended hours and offering additional programs. Please contact your local USO Center for more information.

Well-Being and Emotional Support

Periods of financial stress and uncertainty can take an emotional toll. If you or someone you know is struggling, confidential support is available 24/7 through the Military/Veterans Crisis Line. A caring, qualified responder will listen and help.

Call: 988 (then press 1)
Text: 838255
Visit: VeteransCrisisLine.net

Financial and Family Support

Military OneSource: Free support for service members and families, including financial counseling and resource navigation.

Military Star Card: 90 days of zero interest and no payments on commissary purchases. Offer through November 30 for both new and existing cardholders.

Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA): Families of students attending Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools can apply for free or reduced price school meals during the shutdown.

Branch Relief Organizations

Army Emergency Relief (AER): Provides zero-interest loans and grants to Soldiers and families facing financial emergencies.

Air Force Aid Society (AFAS): Offers no-interest loans and grants to airmen, guardians and their families during unexpected financial emergencies.

Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS): Provides financial assistance (loans, grants, emergency support) to sailors, Marines and eligible family members.

National Guard Relief Foundation: Provides emergency financial assistance (grants and interest-free loans) to National Guard members and their families.

Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA): Provides interest-free loans, grants, counseling and referrals to Coast Guard personnel and families.

Financial Institutions Offering Assistance

During the shutdown, several of the USO’s valued partners are providing special programs to help military members and families stay financially stable.

Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU): Offering emergency assistance, special loan programs and financial guidance for members impacted by the shutdown.

USAA: Providing financial support options, payment relief programs and personalized assistance for eligible members.

PenFed Credit Union: Extending member relief programs, loan deferment options and financial counseling for those affected by pay delays.

Additional Resources

Elizabeth Dole Foundation: Through the Bob & Dolores Hope Fund for Critical Assistance, the foundation provides emergency financial relief and resource navigation for military and veteran caregivers, their service members or veterans and their families directly affected by the shutdown.

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): Provides free assistance and information to help service members and veterans navigate benefits and support programs.