Credit Union Stories of Support

From October 1 to November 12, America experienced its longest government shutdown to date, impacting millions of people nationwide. Credit unions across New Jersey and Pennsylvania quickly stepped up to support their members, providing low-interest loans, payment flexibility, and more during these difficult times. CrossState gathered such stories of support from our members, each of which exemplify their commitment to helping their communities.

American Heritage Credit Union

Upon news of the federal government shutdown, American Heritage Credit Union (CU) offered a Lifeline Loan–the equivalent to receiving one net paycheck amount–which was interest-free for the first 90 days. By mid-November, 94 members had applied for special loan, totaling $225,000, and 86 loans were processed through their Skip-A-Pay initiative.

American Heritage CU also offered financial assistance programs, including:

• Waiving early withdrawal penalties on certificates during the furlough period
• Waiving any penalties on withdrawals from high-yield savings and money market accounts
• Providing refunds on ODP, overdraft, and insufficient funds fees
• Refunding late fees on certain loans
• Skipping the October 2025 payment for those who were affected and had a loan

Additionally, to support those affected by the lapse in SNAP benefits, American Heritage CU provided a monetary donation and items received from their annual food drive to food pantries and community organizations ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Pheple Federal Credit Union

Beginning in October 2025, Pheple Federal Credit Union (FCU) worked with their members on missed loans and credit card payments, connected impacted members to their partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness, and provided free, confidential counseling with their FiCEP- and CCUFC-certified staff. They also launched a special relief loan and sent member-wide emails, providing paths to support.

As SNAP disruptions emerged in early November, Pheple FCU set up “take-what-you-need” food pantries in every branch and offered a Quick Food Assistance microloan to SNAP recipients. In the first week, they were able to disburse 25 total $500 loans. They also disbursed two of the special relief loans for furloughed workers and distributed $800 in Aldi groceries and gift cards for Thanksgiving.

Visionary Federal Credit Union

To assist those affected by the shutdown, Visionary Federal Credit Union (FCU) offered a short-term loan of up to $5,000 with no payments for 90 days at 0% interest, followed by 8.50% interest for 24 months. They also waived any overdraft fees and extended Courtesy Pay time limits beyond their normal 30 days.

They continued to monitor affected members’ accounts and did not charge any fees regardless of late loan payments or overdrawn accounts.

Citadel Credit Union

With families across the region feeling the strain of reduced SNAP assistance, all 24 Citadel Credit Union (CU) branches across Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties served as food donation drop-off sites throughout November. In addition, Citadel CU donated $30,000 to local food banks to ensure that shelves stayed stocked during this time.

This initiative was part of Citadel’s “Our Values in Action” campaign, which is focused on building strength and stability across Greater Philadelphia. Donations directly supported trusted community partners, including Chester County Food Bank, Water Street Mission, Warminster Food Bank, and Share Food Program.