WASHINGTON, D.C. –

Dealerships now are joining the effort already in motion by banks, finance companies and regulators to help furloughed federal workers.

On Friday, the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association (WANADA) announced that franchised dealers in the greater Washington, D.C., area have begun offering a special assistance program to all federal government employees affected by the government shutdown.

Participating dealership chains include Beyer Auto, Fitzgerald Auto Mall, Alexandria Hyundai and Brown's Car Stores, which together operate more than 20 dealerships in the Washington area.

It is estimated that more than 800,000 workers nationwide are not getting paid during the shutdown.

Under the Shutdown Assistance Program For Vehicle Owners, federal employees who are currently furloughed because of the shutdown would be able to get their vehicles serviced and repaired at participating dealers, but have payment for the work deferred until after the government fully re-opens.

The association noted that customers are encouraged to speak to the individual dealership chains to work out a pre-payment agreement that works for them.

“The ongoing federal government shutdown has created a lot of challenges for federal workers and their families,” WANADA president and CEO John O’Donnell said.

“Through this program, WANADA members are happy to do their part in making this difficult time at least a little bit easier,” O’Donnell went on to say.