The Federal Reserve created a series of special lending facilities to stabilize the financial system.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Federal_Reserve_System#cite_note-91

In sum, in response to severe threats to our economy, the Federal Reserve created a series of special lending facilities to stabilize the financial system and encourage the resumption of private credit flows to American families and businesses. As market conditions and the economic outlook have improved, these programs have been terminated or are being phased out.