Credit union's refined framework delivers immediate shutdown relief
As we enter day 28 of the government shutdown, Educational Employees Credit Union's more than 392,000 members in Central California have had access to financial relief for nearly four weeks thanks to a shutdown assistance program the credit union activated the moment the government closed.
Preparedness built over decades of crisis response
"When it became clear that Congress had not reached a budget agreement by September 30, we were able to roll out our Government Shutdown Assistance Program immediately," said Mark V. Perez, EECU senior vice president of lending and marketing. "Because helping members through difficult times is part of who we are as a credit union, we already had the structure, procedures, and staff readiness to respond."
EECU's speed wasn't luck or improvisation. The credit union has maintained an emergency response framework for decades, deploying it through previous government shutdowns, the pandemic, and natural disasters. This framework includes established procedures, loan offerings, and payment modification programs that can be tailored to specific needs, allowing EECU to adapt rather than start from scratch when the current crisis hit.
The shutdown assistance program offers affected members several options: no-interest loans of up to $10,000 for 30 days, skip-a-payment programs, and waived penalties for early withdrawal from share and IRA certificates.
"We placed a $10,000 cap on the amount to provide a clear, consistent structure that meets most members' short-term income needs while maintaining responsible lending standards," Perez explained. The approach builds on what EECU has learned works for members facing temporary income disruption.
Financial strength enables member support
The relief programs don't compromise EECU's institutional health. "Providing assistance during difficult times has always been part of EECU's identity and does not impact our long-term financial soundness," Perez said. "Offering temporary relief, such as short-term, no-interest loans, helps stabilize members' financial situations, which in turn supports the overall health and sustainability of the cooperative."
This balance between generosity and prudence reflects a core credit union principle: when members thrive financially, the institution thrives. Short-term assistance prevents members from falling into deeper financial distress that could ultimately harm both the individual and the credit union.
Trained staff deliver empathetic, individualized service
EECU staff receive training to provide consistent, compassionate assistance during uncertain times. When members reach out, representatives listen carefully, review available options, and help determine the best fit for each situation.
Members learn about assistance through multiple channels. EECU uses its website and email to announce relief options, while front-line employees share information one-on-one in branches and through the call center. The credit union also issued a media release to inform the broader community about available help.
The personal connection matters. One longtime member who is a federal employee recently sent EECU a text message expressing gratitude for the assistance program. "(It) made my weekend less stressful knowing that I have EECU's support in these difficult times," the member wrote, thanking the representative who reviewed their options.
"(It) made my weekend less stressful knowing that I have EECU's support in these difficult times."
Lessons learned shape each response
Each economic disruption has strengthened EECU's crisis-response capabilities. These experiences shaped EECU's ability to move quickly, reassure members that help is available, and tailor relief packages to specific needs.
"We've learned from prior economic disruptions that members need both immediate financial options and clear, proactive communication," Perez said. "Each event reinforces our preparedness and strengthens our ability to respond compassionately and effectively in the future."
A model for the movement
Credit unions across the nation are stepping up to support members affected by the federal shutdown. For credit unions considering similar emergency relief programs, Perez offers straightforward advice rooted in cooperative philosophy: "As member-owned cooperatives, this is what credit unions do. Our best advice is simply to remain true to the cooperative philosophy—be there for your members in both good times and bad. Having established relief procedures in place and acting quickly when needed makes all the difference in delivering timely, meaningful assistance."
America's Credit Unions has a Government Shutdown Assistance webpage with resources and will continue to engage with Congress on getting funding restored.