Local credit unions step up to serve our community
As the federal government shutdown drags on, thousands of families, including many right here in the Greater Bakersfield region, are feeling the strain of missed paychecks.
The Greater Bakersfield Chamber stands proudly with our member credit unions that are stepping up to help. These member-owned financial institutions are providing real relief for affected federal employees and military families through 0% emergency loans, deferred payments, fee waivers, and other hardship assistance to help them stay afloat until government operations resume.
Credit unions are guided by service, not profit. Their cooperative structure allows them to act quickly and compassionately, offering flexible solutions that help members weather financial uncertainty when it matters most.
Below you’ll find information about each participating credit union, along with direct links to their assistance programs.
Program: Government Shutdown Relief Options
Highlights:
- Payroll Advance up to $6,000 for eligible members
- Bridge Loans up to $5,000 with no payments for 90 days
- Loan Payment Deferments and Fee Waivers
- Complimentary Coverage Reviews and financial counseling
Contact: (800) 433-9727
“Our members shouldn’t have to face this stress alone. We’ve stood with this community for nearly 80 years, and we’ll continue to be here through every challenge.”
Educational Employees Credit Union (EECU)
Program: Federal Government Shutdown Assistance
Highlights:
- 0% APR Emergency Loan up to $10,000 for 30 days
- Skip-a-Payment options for existing loans
- Early withdrawal penalty waivers for savings and IRA certificates
- Free access to financial wellness workshops and debt counseling
Contact: (800) 538-3328
“EECU is here to support our members during this challenging time. We encourage any member impacted by the government shutdown to reach out so we can find the right solution together.”
Program: Special Assistance Resources for Federal Employees
Highlights:
- 0% APR Paycheck Assistance Loans up to $6,000
- Mortgage Hardship Assistance
- Skip-a-Payment eligibility for auto, credit card, and personal loans
- Support available for affected business members
Contact: (800) 221-3311
“Our Federal Employee Assistance Resources are designed to provide reassurance and support, offering relief options such as 0% interest loans and deferred payments to help our members bridge the gap in uncertain times.”
Program: Payroll Assistance Loan for Federal Employees
Highlights:
- 0% APR for a 60-day term
- Loan amount equal to one month’s net federal pay (up to $6,000)
- Two equal payments due at 30 and 60 days
Contact: (877) 465-3361
Program: Government Employee Relief Program (for existing members)
Highlights:
- 0% interest short-term loans equal to one month’s pay
- 12-month repayment term with first payment due in 60 days
- Consumer Loan Extensions (skip payments up to 2 months) with no fees
Contact: (877) 723-3128
Program: Federal Employee Relief Program
Highlights:
- Short-term emergency loans for furloughed employees
- Flexible repayment options
- Personalized member assistance
Contact: (661) 327-9461
Program: Payroll Assistance Loan for Federal Employees
Highlights:
- Loan amounts from $500–$3,000
- 8.99% APR fixed rate regardless of credit score
- No payments for up to 60 days
- No prepayment penalties
Contact: (209) 549-8500
A United Message of Support
The Chamber commends these member institutions for their swift action and compassion in supporting those affected by the shutdown. As advocacy continues at the federal level, we remain committed to sharing updates, connecting residents with resources, and amplifying the voices of businesses working to keep our local economy strong.
“Our local credit unions are showing what community leadership looks like. They’re taking care of their members right now, and that’s the heart of what the Chamber stands for,” said President & CEO of the Chamber, Janelle Capra.
Why Focus on Credit Unions?
The Chamber recognized an opportunity to connect residents with resources that directly mitigate the economic stress caused by the shutdown.
“Our Credit Union Campaign highlights how Central Valley credit unions are offering emergency financial relief, demonstrating leadership in both service and advocacy,” said the Chamber’s Senior Director of Strategic Communications, Joel Paramo.
Economic and Business Impacts
The shutdown’s effects extend beyond individual employees. Small businesses are experiencing delays in federal approvals, licensing, and client services.
“The government shutdown is harming small businesses and costing American economic growth that can’t be recovered,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Neil Bradley.
Local business owners echo this concern. Delays in filings, approvals, and client work threaten both short-term operations and long-term community development.
Meanwhile, financial oversight and technology adoption, including artificial intelligence (AI) in financial services, face delays. Curt Long, Chief Economist at America’s Credit Unions, notes that AI investments remain a key economic driver, even as uncertainty from the shutdown slows decision-making.
Why We Launched the CU Campaign
The Chamber’s Credit Union Campaign reflects our mission to connect residents and businesses with trusted, practical solutions while advocating for a stable federal government.
“These institutions are providing relief and embodying the resilience and spirit of the Greater Bakersfield region,” said Paramo. “By highlighting local credit unions, we ensure transparency in our advocacy and empower residents to take advantage of programs designed to alleviate financial strain.”
Looking Forward
While legislators remain in stalemate, the Chamber continues to advocate for a resolution and shares timely updates on resources available to residents. Participating credit unions remain ready to help federal employees navigate this difficult period with flexible loans, payment deferments, and expert guidance.
For more information, contact the Greater Bakersfield Chamber at info@bakochamber.com or call (661) 327-4421.