It's been nearly two weeks since the federal government shut down, with lawmakers in Washington still deadlocked over this fiscal year’s budget. And here on Guam, families are already feeling the impact – from furloughed federal employees to those relying on programs like WIC and SNAP. As frustration grows, both the governor and Guam’s congressman say they’re doing what they can to keep programs going.

Almost a a half-month into the federal government shutdown, there’s still no deal amongst Washington lawmakers in sight. And Governor Lou Leon Guerrero says her administration is working to soften the blow for local families caught in the middle of the federal standoff as it turns from political gridlock to personal hardship for many.

“Not getting their paychecks, not being able to buy their groceries, not being able to pay their bills – it’s just a horrible situation and I’m just hoping that Congress will get to their senses and pass either a continuing Resolution or the budget because people are struggling out there," she stated.

Currently, Leon Guerrero’s administration is combing through remaining federal grants to keep essential programs funded for as long as possible. “We’re working very closely with our government agencies to see what can continue to be paid through previous federal grants that are still in our accounts, that we can move and pay these people," she said.

Meanwhile, Guam delegate Congressman James Moylan stated in a press release that his office is focused on delivering three things – compassion, clarity, and coordination. As part of his “One Guam” approach, Moylan is  also working with agencies like the Guam Department of Labor, Guam Power Authority, and Guam Waterworks Authority to prepare relief measures such as payment deferments, waived fees, and temporary suspension of disconnections.

Moylan’s guidance also reaches beyond utilities. 

His office says homeowners should contact their loan servicers for possible payment flexibility, and renters are encouraged to work with landlords on temporary grace periods.

Section 8 and HUD-VASH vouchers remain active, but tenants must still pay their share of rent.

Local telecom providers — GTA, Docomo Pacific, and IT&E — are also offering payment extensions to help prevent service disruptions.

Moylan adds that most federal employees will receive backpay once the shutdown ends, though contractors may not.

He urges affected workers to contact his office for assistance and reminds them that furloughs are temporary — not terminations.