Navigating Federal Layoffs: Resources for You and Our Community

Community Events & Workshops

Explore upcoming events, workshops, and programs happening across our community—from job fairs and financial wellness sessions to gatherings that offer connection, learning, and care.

Know of something not on our list? Submit it here.

Financial Relief

Through our network of rabbis and partners—including JCADA, Hebrew Free Loan, and Bikur Cholim—Federation is providing cash assistance to help community members facing urgent needs during this challenging time.

If you or someone you know is in need of immediate support, please reach out to your synagogue or call 703-J-CARING to connect with our Jewish community support line.

Mental Health & Well-Being

Taking care of your mental and emotional health matters—especially in uncertain times. Here are resources to support you and those you care about.

• J-Caring: Our community support initiative, in partnership with JSSA (Jewish Social Service Agency), offers confidential assistance with mental health care, career services, emergency cash assistance, and more. If you or someone you know is in need, call 703-JCARING today.
• JSSA: Our expert mental health professionals can teach you how to manage the additional stress and help guide you through these challenging times with respect and dignity. Call 240-800-JSSA (5772) to book an appointment with one of our clinicians in MD or VA.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Many federal agencies offer EAPs that provide confidential counseling and support services to help employees manage personal and work-related challenges.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support and resources for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns during employment transitions.

Professional Services & Support

Local community members and organizations are stepping up to support those impacted.

• • If you are seeking 1-on-1 counseling, please contact Mick Neustadt for confidential support.
  • For professional career coaching and leadership support, June Kress is helping individuals build bridges inside and out.
  • Pastoral care is available through GatherDC.
  • Join the MILTON Federal/Federal-Adjacent Support WhatsApp group for help with job searches, resume writing, interviewing, and networking.
  • Lauren Kessler is offering resume writing support and mock interviews.
  • Stephanie Schwartz is available to talk with people interested in pursuing positions in the nonprofit sector and/or fundraising/development positions.

If you know of free or discounted services to support those impacted by the federal layoffs submit them here.

Additional Resources & Partners

Explore more support from our trusted partners and organizations across the region.

• Bikur Cholim offers support to Jewish patients and caregivers.
• Hebrew Free Loan provides loans of up to $20,000 to community members in need.
• JCADA supports victims of intimate partner violence to become empowered and live safely.
• JSSA’s Homecare program supports older adults with daily living and medication management so their loved ones can work with peace of mind. Interested in supporting an older adult living at home? Call 240-800-JSSA (5772).
• JSSA’s Meals on Wheels program provides daily nutritious, kosher meals delivered to older adults in Montgomery County, MD. Call 301-816-2612 to learn more.
• JCaring Care Navigation offers dedicated and hands-on support to help you access resources, build a care plan, and put it into action. Call 703-522-7464 or visit jcaring.org.
• Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation’s Capital is matching families affected by federal job transitions (including those who need to return to the office in-person) with families that can help with before/after care, transportation, meals, and other needs. Fill out this form if you are in need of OR if you can offer support.

Know your rights as a federal employee.

• Employment Rights Under Federal Law outlines the basic legal protections afforded to all employees.
• US Office of Personnel Management, Employee Rights and Appeals explains how federal employees can exercise their rights and appeal personnel decisions.
• US Office of Special Counsel, Your Rights as a Federal Employee describes protections against prohibited practices, including whistleblower retaliation.
• Accommodation to Qualified Employees with Disabilities details the rights of employees with disabilities and how to request reasonable accommodations.
• Prohibited Personnel Practices Including the Right to Appeal defines actions that violate federal employment law and the process to report or appeal them.
• Whistleblower Protections and Accompanying Resources supports employees who report wrongdoing, with guidance on protections and reporting procedures.
• Information on Civil Service Law provides an overview of the legal framework governing federal employment.

Get Involved: How You Can Help

Small actions make a big difference.
Whether you’re offering free or discounted services like resume writing, professional coaching, or mental health support, or donating resources such as job leads, childcare, financial advice, or mentorship, your contribution can make a difference. From career guidance to emotional support, we’d love to feature what you’re able to offer on this page. Let us know here.

Your generous support helps ensure we can continue to meet the needs of our community. Donate here

Federal Employees Legal Defense Network
The Federal Employees Legal Defense Network is uniting lawyers to assist current or former federal workers through a central hub to connect them with opportunities to provide much needed representation. If you have experience representing federal employees or have already participated in a training, signup for the preliminary interest list here: We The Action’s Public Service Legal Response Center.