As our nation navigates the current federal government shutdown, the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce stands in strong support of the men and women who serve our country and our community every day. From NAS Corpus Christi to the Corpus Christi Army Depot and our U.S. Coast Guard sector, these service members, civilian employees, and contractors are an essential part of our region’s strength and resilience.

While the shutdown has created uncertainty for many federal employees and their families, the Coastal Bend is once again showing what it means to come together in times of need. Across our community, organizations and institutions are stepping up to provide help and peace of mind to those affected.

Financial Relief and Support Resources
Several financial institutions with deep ties to the military community are offering no interest loans and temporary assistance programs to help bridge the gap in pay during the shutdown. These include:

• First Community Bank –  Advance up to one month’s paycheck, with no fees and no interest. Available to customers with a deposit account open for at least 90 days. No early withdrawal penalties on CDs during the shutdown. Existing Loan Relief for customers with existing loans, please contact your servicing officer.
• USAA – Offering eligible members no interest loans of $500 to $6,000 to cover one net paycheck.
• Navy Federal Credit Union – Providing zero interest loans up to $6,000 through its Paycheck Assistance Program for members with direct deposit.
• PenFed Credit Union – Offering paycheck equivalent loans at zero percent interest for qualifying members.
• First Command Financial Services – Extending interest free pay advances to qualifying customers, repayable within three months.
• Andrews Federal Credit Union – Providing short term loans, penalty free share certificate withdrawals, and other member relief options.
  

In addition to these financial partners, several military aid societies are standing ready to assist service members and their families with immediate needs such as rent, utilities, and childcare. These include:

• Army Emergency Relief (AER) – Offering rapid, zero interest loans of up to $6,000.
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA) – Providing interest free loans to help with essential living expenses.
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) – Assisting Airmen, Guardians, and families with emergency needs.
• Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) – Supporting Navy and Marine Corps families with immediate financial help.

United in Support

We encourage Chamber members to share how they are supporting our local military and federal workforce during this period. Whether through flexible payment options, community donations, or simply offering a helping hand, every act of generosity makes a difference.

Together, we stand united with our service members, civilian employees, and the families who keep our region strong. 

Please share your initiatives with our team so we can help amplify your efforts and make sure our neighbors know where to turn for help.