UPDATES & NEWS

Resources for Navigating the Government Shutdown

Supporting Our Community

In these challenging times, we stand united as a community, ready to support one another and navigate the complexities of uncertainty. Our commitment to fostering resilience and collaboration is stronger than ever.

The links included below are publicly available, and their inclusion does not constitute an endorsement of any organization, business, or product. We will continue to update this page as new resources become available!

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The Partnership for Public Service has curated an extensive government shutdown resources page. This page features an FAQ section, a detailed report titled “Shutdown Letdown,” and an option to sign up for email updates. Additionally, PPS proudly presents their “I Support Fed” campaign, which highlights the importance of public service and the significant effects of a federal shutdown.

The Federal News Network has created a Federal Employee Shutdown Survival Guide.

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Local businesses are also offering support. Check out Axios D.C.’s “All-day happy hour, cheap eats: Government shutdown specials are everywhere” and “D.C. shows up for federal workers with shutdown discounts and perks” for more details.

Live in NOVA? See “34 Deals for Furloughed, Laid-Off Feds in Northern VA” from Arlington Magazine.

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The Washington Council of Lawyers has compiled a list of Resources During the Government Shutdown, which includes Know Your Rights/Legal Need Assistance, financial resources, and more.

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Mental-Health & Crisis Support (DMV)

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a mental-health crisis, help is available 24/7:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988lifeline.org — call or text 988 nationwide for free, confidential support.
  • DC Department of Behavioral Health Helpine: 1-888-793-4357 (24/7) — dbh.dc.gov/services/helpline
  • Maryland Crisis Hotline: dial 211, then press 1 — or chat at 211md.org
  • Virginia Mental Health & Crisis Lines: dial 988 or find your local Community Services Board (CSB) at dbhds.virginia.gov/crisis
  • SAMHSA Treatment Locator: findtreatment.gov — for outpatient, inpatient, and substance-use services near you.

These lines offer counseling, de-escalation, and referrals to nearby clinics, mobile crisis teams, or emergency shelters. Many provide interpretation services and are accessible to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

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2-1-1: One-Stop Help Line (DMV)

2-1-1 is a free, confidential, 24/7 phone and online referral service available in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. By dialing 2-1-1 or visiting 211.org, residents can connect with trained specialists who screen their needs and direct them to local services such as food pantries, utility-bill assistance, rent and mortgage help, transportation, childcare, legal aid, and disaster/emergency relief. Operators can also provide information on shelter beds, senior services, and counseling resources — especially useful for furloughed federal employees or contractors experiencing financial strain during the shutdown.

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