Looking for help for a friend...

[mrs premise]

My husband and I frequent a watering hole. We are struggling, but it seems to be the only place for us to go that is cheap, friendly, and safe. One of our favorite waitresses is a single mother of four kids. The eldest is 16 and wants to read books more then date boys. Our waitress is struggling. She makes more on paper for government assistant. Her ex does not pay child support, so she is on her own. She has tried for welfare, food stamps, and anything to help. She says that the paper pushers say that she makes too much because she makes tips. I know where she works, and I know what she makes, and it is not enough to make a proper living for her or her daughters. I would love some help of what to look for so I could help her. The DU is such a font of ideas, I come to you for help. What can I do, where should I look for her? She is so wonderful, I am afraid she will fall through the cracks.

[Liberty Belle]

1. What state and city do you live in? That might help people offer suggestions.

[mrs premise]

5. Not so progressive

We are in Las Vegas, NV. Not the most blue state, but worked hard for Obama. I just wished he was working as hard for us. I just worry about her. Stupid really, since we just got a foreclosure notice taped on our door. The funny thing is, that just makes me want to fight harder. I want to make the money men flap in the wind. My husband and I are just 1 of many, like our friends who are forced to short sell the home they love, and our other friends who mailed the keys and walked away. We are all Americans. Our situation has forced me to research this current "crises". It makes me sad that they all say the same thing. "Why can't we pay our bills?" "I am so ashamed that we can't keep up." Why did this happen to us?" What do the banks say--To bad so sad pay us or you are out. The anger and frustration make me wish I was the Hulk, at least I could say they wouldn't like me when I was angry.

[ChicagoSuz219]

2. Check craigslist in your area... nt

[Justitia]

3. Some ideas....

She should apply for Medicaid if she doesn't have medical coverage. There are different levels of subsidy. With 4 kids, she should qualify for something.

Try contacting each utility company and asking about their individual assistance programs. Some offer discounts in summer and w/heating in winter.
Don't forget the phone company too. Everyone should have at least a basic phone line and these can usually be had very cheaply.

Car insurance: raise deductibles and eliminate extra coverage. This is not ideal, as an accident could be financially devastating, but it may help lower premiums.

Apply for reduced / free lunch (breakfast too) program at school for the kids. Many people qualify and don't know it.

Touch base with the school social worker. Tell them what is happening financially, they may know of any additional programs that can help.

Her biggest expense is probably housing, but without knowing the particulars, not much help here.

These may be small things, but I've been there, and every little bit helps.

You are a good friend.

[mrs premise]

4. Thank you

I just want to put all her options together in one easy to read packet. I am a novice, so learning what to do is invaluable. Thank you for taking the time to respond. It means so much!!!

[Oeditpus Rex]

6. I'd just like to welcome you to DU

and remind you that you don't want to come back from Sorento to a dead cat; it'd be so anti-climactic.

:hi:

[mrs premise]

7. It is only true

because they breed in the sewers. Just like Republicans. It is a cheap shot, easy and low hanging.

[Oeditpus Rex]

8. And eventually, you get evil-smelling flocks

of huge, soiled Republicans flying out of people's lavatories, infringing their personal freedom.









Good morning, Mrs. Cutout.