As the federal government shutdown continues to strain the finances of thousands of Montgomery County residents who are or were employed or contracted by Uncle Sam, state and local agencies and business are offering a range of relief programs to ease the financial burden, from loans to free meals. Below is a list of what’s available right now for impacted federal workers.
Government & County Support:
Zero-Interest Loan Program
The State of Maryland is offering $700 interest-free loans to furloughed or unpaid federal employees through its Resources for Federal Workers initiative.
More information.
Unemployment Assistance
Furloughed federal employees can apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) through the Maryland Department of Labor.
More information.
Eviction and Foreclosure Protection
Federal workers who can’t pay rent or mortgages during the shutdown are protected from eviction if they meet eligibility criteria.
More information.
Utility Relief
The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC Water) is waiving late fees and halting service shutoffs for affected federal workers.
More information.
Career Support
The county’s Mobilize Montgomery program is connecting furloughed employees with temporary jobs and coaching.
More information.
Restaurant Freebies & Discounts:
RASA (Rockville)
Offering $10 “Shutdown Bowls” for federal employees with a valid ID.
More information.
Taco Bamba (Rockville & Gaithersburg)
Buy one, get one free tacos for federal workers.
More information.
Matchbox Restaurants (Bethesda & Rockville)
20% off dine-in meals for government employees during the shutdown. More information.
Moby Dick House of Kabob
Select locations are offering free drinks with any entrée for federal workers showing ID.
More information.
All offers require a valid federal government ID and most are temporary, expiring once the shutdown ends. Most establishments offering support and discounts recommend calling ahead or checking the Montgomery County website for updated information before visiting.
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