RICHMOND, Va. –
The Virginia National Guard has multiple resources ready to help service members and their families navigate difficult financial situations, including government shutdowns, designed to help those in the VNG family cope during hardships.
The Virginia National Guard’s J9 Directorate of Resilience and the Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce have distributed a wealth of information for the VNG’s formations since the lapse in appropriations began Oct. 1, 2025.
A comprehensive list of financial resources available to members of the Virginia National Guard can be found at https://vngpao.info/ysje2c43.
“The Virginia National Guard remains committed to supporting our service members and their families, whether during normal operations, deployments or even in lapses in appropriations,” said Col. Paul Gravely, the J9 Director of Resiliency. “I encourage anyone affected who may be experiencing a hardship during the current federal government shutdown to take advantage of the resources available to them.”
“During our current government shutdown, the Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce recognizes and emphasizes the importance of financial fitness as a key factor in preventing harmful behaviors, said William Downey, the IPPW’s Primary Prevention Officer. “Focusing on prevention can improve our overall wellness and unit readiness.”
One key resource all VNG members are encouraged to take advantage of is financial counseling, provided by Bob Trull, a certified personal financial counselor. Trull emphasized that if someone thinks they may have difficulty making payments on their mortgage, auto or utilities should reach out to the their lender immediately.
“Do not wait until a payment is missed,” said Trull. “Proactively communicating is the most important step since you must request or apply to any possible relief programs. They will not automatically be applied to your accounts.”
Trull said borrowers should explain their situation as a Guard member impacted by the shutdown to their lending institution and ask about any relief or hardship programs they offer. He also recommends documenting all conversations, including with whom you spoke, the date and what was agreed upon.
In addition to possible relief from financial institutions, the Virginia National Guard Foundation may also be able to offer assistance.
“Many financial institutions offer specific government shutdown assistance programs such as interest-free or low-interest loans, or payment relief for their members,” Trull said. “Check with your bank or credit union. If you’ve exhausted other options, you can reach out to the Virginia National Guard Foundation for potential assistance.”
Trull also suggests downloading and keeping a copy of your current credit report before any payments are missed and begin impacting the report. Checking credit reports is free, and does not impact your credit score.