WASHINGTON, DC (June 25, 2026) |
The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) is calling for the inclusion of the Access to Fair Financing for Opportunity and Resilient Development (AFFORD) Act, in the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), highlighting the legislation’s role in expanding housing affordability, strengthening Community Development Financial Institutions
(CDFIs), and improving financial readiness for military families and underserved communities.
In a recent letter to Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), DCUC expressed strong support for the bipartisan legislation, noting its alignment with long-standing efforts to expand access to responsible capital and strengthen economic opportunity in communities that serve the nation’s military.
“Credit unions continue to serve as key financial partners for military members, veterans, and families, especially as they continue to face significant housing affordability challenges,” says Anthony Hernandez, DCUC President/CEO, Ret. U.S. Air Force Colonel. “These communities are navigating frequent permanent change of station (PCS) moves, limited housing availability near installations, and escalating rental and homeownership costs. Financial stress remains a leading factor that can affect military readiness, retention, and long-term force resiliency.”
In the letter, DCUC Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak explained that the AFFORD Act would strengthen CDFIs by expanding access to capital, enhancing the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program, and improving liquidity tools available to mission-driven lenders.
“These provisions would help finance affordable housing construction, support small business development, and increase investment in underserved communities, including those near military installations and in rural areas,” says Stverak.
DCUC also supports provisions enhancing oversight and transparency of CDFI programs, as well as targeted investments in Native Community Development Financial Institutions, which serve communities with strong military service traditions and persistent barriers to housing and credit access.
“Financial readiness is inseparable from military readiness,” reminds Hernandez. “The AFFORD Act strengthens the financial foundation that allows military families to stay focused on their mission and build long-term stability during and after service.”