Needham, MA – November 2025 — Direct Federal Credit Union is deepening its commitment to the community through its Direct Cares initiative, launching several new efforts to help families facing financial strain from the ongoing government shutdown.

“At Direct, we exist to serve our members and community — not just through banking, but through care, compassion, and action,” said Kristen Johnson, Senior Vice President, Employee & Brand Experience. “This moment calls for us to step up, together, and support those feeling the impact most.”

Thanksgiving Grocery Assistance

To help families bring warmth and comfort to their Thanksgiving tables, Direct Federal is distributing $100 grocery gift cards to members and residents directly affected by the government shutdown.

Each gift card will include a handwritten note from a Direct Federal employee, offering encouragement and reminding recipients that they are not alone — and that their community cares. Members and community members in need can request a grocery gift card through the Direct Cares Thanksgiving Assistance Form found at Direct.com/DirectCares.

Community Partnership with Needham Community Council

As part of this initiative, Direct Federal has made a $5,000 donation to the Needham Community Council (NCC) to support their vital work in providing food and essential resources to local households.

In collaboration with NCC, Direct Federal will also host a food drive at its Needham branch. These efforts aim to help families not only meet immediate needs but also experience the spirit of the season together.

Financial Counseling and Relief Options

For members navigating income disruptions or financial uncertainty, Direct Federal’s Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors (CCUFCs) are offering free one-on-one financial counseling sessions.

These sessions — available both virtually and in branch — focus on practical budgeting, safe credit management, and short-term financial planning.

Member Relief Options

The Direct Cares Program is offering a series of Member Relief Options* designed to provide immediate financial flexibility for those directly impacted by the government shutdown:

• Member Relief Loan – Borrow up to $10,000 at 0.00% APR for 6 months, with a fast-processing turnaround time to help cover urgent needs. (Furlough letter required)
• Visa Credit Card Limit Increase – Temporarily increase your credit card limit by $5,000 to help manage expenses. (Furlough letter required)
• FREE Loan Skip-A-Pay – Skip a loan payment up to three times, 30 days at a time, with no fees. (Furlough letter required)

*Relief program terms and conditions apply. Offers are subject to credit approval. Full details are available at Direct.com/DirectCares.

A Community United by Care

“Our members and our neighbors are the reason Direct exists,” added Johnson. “Direct Cares is our promise that, no matter what challenges arise, we’ll continue to walk beside our community — offering both financial support and human connection.”

About Direct Federal Credit Union

Direct Federal Credit Union, headquartered in Needham, Massachusetts, is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution dedicated to helping members achieve their financial goals through affordable, innovative products and community partnerships. Direct Federal proudly serves Norfolk and Middlesex counties and remains committed to giving back through initiatives like Direct Cares.

For more information, visit direct.com or follow us on social media.

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Media Contact:

Danya Raphael-Hoyle

Vice President, Marketing & Sales

Direct Federal Credit Union

Email: draphael@direct.com

Phone: 617-869-6228