Another government shutdown can leave military families asking the impossible: Go to work and not get paid? The last shutdown in 2018 lasted 35 days, and families across the nation felt the strain.
At Project Sanctuary, we know uncertainty is stressful. We’re here to help with resources, support, and guidance.
What to Expect
Government shutdowns can disrupt funding, reduce services, and impact both service members and veterans in different ways. Families may face questions about paychecks, VA services, on-base schools, and more.
- Military Times has answers to common shutdown questions.
- Military.com offers a clear list of what you should and should not do during a shutdown.
Project Sanctuary Support
Our Family Support Team may be able to assist with emergency financial needs on a case-by-case basis.
FamilySupport@ProjectSanctuary.us
We’ve also compiled trusted resources to help you navigate this challenging time (updated 10/22/2025)
Blue Star Families has launched a new comprehensive online resource hub to support military families during the shutdown. Available on the Blue Star Neighborhood, families can find details and links to:
- Financial and career services
- Food and childcare information
- Service branch-specific shutdown resources
- Mental health and well-being support
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Hope Fund for Critical Financial Assistance offers a lifeline to military and veteran caregivers facing urgent financial strain. Administered through the Hidden Heroes initiative, the fund provides grants that go directly to vendors (not caregivers) to address essential needs like rent or mortgage support, home repairs, utilities, medical or dental bills, vehicle repairs, natural disaster relief, and other crisis expenses.
To qualify, applicants must be adult caregivers (18 years or older) providing care to a wounded, ill, or injured veteran or service member. The program is open to family caregivers, including spouses, adult children, and other family members, in all U.S. states and territories, regardless of whether they are enrolled in VA caregiver support programs.
While there is no strict cap on the amount one may request, grants typically average around $2,500, depending on the documented need.
The Military Star Card is offering 0% interest and no payments for three months on commissary purchases made between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31 to provide added financial assistance during the government shutdown. Read more: https://wp.me/p9Q7PG-32F
Military Assistance Organizations
- Air Force Aid Society (AFAS)
- Army Emergency Relief (AER)
- Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA)
- Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS)
Tip: If you are not located near one of these aid societies, call the American Red Cross (877-272-7337). They coordinate with each branch to provide the same type of financial assistance.
Financial Institutions Supporting Military Families -no interest loans for 3 months
Additional Resources
- United Way 211
- Catholic Charities USA
- Code of Support
- Soldier’s Angels
- Operation Homefront
- The American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance
- Veterans of Foreign Wars – Unmet Needs Program
- Armed Forces Mutual
- Cohen Veterans Network- mental health support
Shutdowns are hard—but you are not alone. Project Sanctuary and our partners are here to ensure military families have the support, tools, and hope to weather the storm.
✨ Please share this resource with your network. Together, we keep families strong.
