Feelig the Economic Crunch :: Finding Help in an economic downturn

Lost Your Job or Sources Of Income?

A large number of clients that contact 211 disclose that they are facing economic hardships at home due to the recent loss of employment and consequent loss of income. This loss can create for a family an “economic quicksand” that can quickly threaten to swallow them whole. Despite this sinking feeling it is important for families to understand that there's hope! Hope of escape, even from the economic quicksand.

The first thing we recommend is that you to take stock of your resources by budgeting your remaining paychecks and pay what bills you can to give yourself time to find work without the pressure of disconnections or evictions.

Second, apply for work through all the conventional sources as well as unconventional sources! Websites such as Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com are fine, but remember also that newspaper want ads, Craigslist.com and simply walking-in to potential employers increase your chances of finding work.

Thirdly, become aware of your community resources! There exist several non-profit agencies that will assist with job placement and skill building that you can gain access to. For more information call Switchboard of Miami at 305-358-HELP (4357).

Losing a home to foreclosure?

Economic hardships are everywhere, and no one person or issue seems to be safe during these times. This is especially true when speaking about the economic safety of one’s home and family. The constant layoffs and lack of employment opportunities has left a great number of families facing the grim reality of foreclosure and the looming threat of homelessness. This threat is one that has slowly become a constant fixture to communities and which affects both families financially and psychologically. It is important to remember that you are not alone. There is assistance with mortgages and the difficulties that families face due to the stress brought on by foreclosure.

We recommend that you first speak to your bank and ask what kind of options they may offer on your mortgage. Remember, the banks would rather keep you in the house than have to go through the process of a foreclosure which also costs them money. It is true that dealing with banking institutions is sometimes intimidating and it is for this reason that we recommend that you find someone who can assist you.

Remember, calling Switchboard of Miami at 305-358-HELP (4357) is a great start to finding someone who cares and is willing to help you out.

Inflation! Having difficulties with increased costs of food, goods and gas?

The financial hardships being faced by families during this economic crisis is a multifaceted challenge which pits families with not only obtaining sources of income through limited employment, but also contending with the maintenance of their households with an ever increasing cost of living brought on by our challenged economy. The increase in gas prices, food and other needed goods (food, diapers, formula etc.) have turned our daily cost of livings from minor expenses into major ticketed items that require careful saving and planning. The best thing that any family can do with the daily cost of living is to remember to buy items on special sales, and use discount coupons when possible.

If you have the choice between brand name and store brand, always choose the store brand since it will save you money that can be used on other needed items. Remember that using credit cards will only lead to future bills that you have to pay at a hiked up interest rate, which will ultimately strain your paycheck. There are also a great number of resources in the community that can offer assistance if you find yourself in crisis with funds for necessities such as (rent; lights bills; and others.

These resources are always available to you through the referrals from the counselors at Switchboard of Miami 305-358-HELP.