When Pay Stops, We Don’t

CGMA Ready to Bridge the Gap

As the government shutdown continues, I know many of you are anxious about what the coming weeks may bring. It’s now likely that the October 15 paycheck will not arrive on time. That uncertainty hits hard — I’ve been there, and I remember exactly how it feels.

I want you to know: we are ready.

• Civilian applications are now open.
• Active Duty applications open October 13.
• Eligible Coast Guard Active Duty, Civilian Employees, and Reservists can apply for an interest-free loan up to one month’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) or equivalent to bridge the gap until pay resumes.

You’ll find all the details and application links here:
mycgma.org/programs/shutdown-loan

If you bank with USAA, Navy Federal, or First Command, please start with their interest-free payroll loan programs. That allows CGMA to reach those who have nowhere else to turn.

Readiness like this comes at a cost — and CGMA’s lifeline depends entirely on donations. We are 100% donor-funded, and when pay stops, our income also drops sharply, since most of our support comes from the very people we serve.

If this shutdown doesn’t impact you personally, please consider helping those it does. Your gift — no matter the size — ensures that a shipmate facing a missed paycheck can find hope, relief, and stability.

Every dollar truly counts. Every act of generosity reminds someone that they’re not alone.

Now, as ever, we’re Helping Our Own® — and we can’t do it without you.

With gratitude and steadfast resolve,

Brooke Millard, CDR, USCG, (Ret.)
Chief Executive Officer
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance
Offical Relief Society of the U.S. Coast Guard