Showing Up During a Shutdown

We all know that the federal government went into shutdown last week while Congress works to finalize a budget. For many of us, it might just feel like another headline out of Washington. But for some of our neighbors, including many credit union members here in Michigan, it’s much more than that. It means uncertainty, delayed paychecks and tough choices. In fact, as many as 57,000 Michiganders are now facing that uncertainty firsthand. 

For those of us in the credit union movement, moments like this are reminders of what sets us apart. We can’t control what happens in Congress, but we can control how we show up for our members. And right now, that means being ready to support people who are facing serious financial stress through no fault of their own.

When those paychecks stop, people turn to the places they trust most. For many, that’s their credit union. Across Michigan, this means preparing your operations to meet those members where they are right now. If you’re not sure how this might affect your community, America’s Credit Unions has put together some great tools, including state-specific data, outreach materials and best practices.

The last federal shutdown lasted 30 days, and for all we know, this one could stretch even longer. I know Michigan credit unions will be ready to meet the moment, just like they always are. You’ve built trust in your communities by showing up when people need you most, and I have no doubt you’ll do the same now.

If you are working on an assistance plan or have already put one together, share your plan with America’s Credit Unions by taking their survey. At MCUL, we’ll be keeping a close eye on developments in Washington and continuing to share updates as they come. If the shutdown continues, we’ll also look for ways to help Michigan credit unions stay connected and support members together.

Shutdowns like this can be frustrating and emotionally draining for the people affected. For credit unions, this is a moment to simply be there, to remind members that they’re not facing that uncertainty alone. When people can trust that their credit union will stand by them through difficult times, that trust becomes the foundation for everything else we do.

Thanks for reading.

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