momto2Cs Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 My dh has been unemployed for nearly two years now. He was on unemployment for part of that time, but that money is long gone. I work part-time outside the home, but it isn't enough to support us. He IS looking actively for work -- it is just that there is not a lot out there. I applied to three local grocery stores today for weekend work to help, which I really don't want to do, but will. Dh was actually scheduled for an interview for a FT position a week ago, but the manager that was supposed to interview him got fired that same day, and despite dh's best efforts, we haven't heard back since. So far we've been able to scrape by, but that's at an end. We've wiped out any savings. I'm getting really frightened, as is dh. And to top it all off, I may or may not be getting laid off at the end of the month (we're really hoping they'll rescind the layoff). We're waiting for a food stamps interview, but that's not until the end of August, and I am praying things will be better by then. Any good thoughts you could spare would be very much appreciated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
curlgirl Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 I am so sorry to hear this. You have my prayers! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
poppy Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Oh dear. I hope things turn around sooner rather than later . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OneStepAtATime Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Huge hugs and prayers! Is there any way to possibly relocate to an area with better job options? I am so sorry! Being under that kind of stress and uncertainty is not healthy. I hope with all my heart that something will come along... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Are there any churches you could go to for help? My dh has a discretionary fund he often uses to help with rent, med expenses, food relief, etc. Do you have a food pantry nearby? I'm sorry things are so hard. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Annie G Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 I'm so sorry that you're going through this. Two years is a long time to deal with this stress. Sending good thoughts... :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
unsinkable Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Praying! And I second the idea to reach out to churches and food pantries while you are waiting. Another thought is to put together a Mommy's Morning Off program or day camp you can run from your home. If you keep it under a certain number of hours per day, you might not even need a license. It Depends on your local laws. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kim in Appalachia Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 :grouphug: I'm sorry. That's awful. Praying for you and your dh. I hope something good happens soon. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie_0801 Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dana Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
umsami Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Hugs and prayers. I also agree about reaching out to churches…and don't forget the LDS churches. A friend is LDS and she says that their church welcomes non-Mormons for help too. Usually, they want people to volunteer in return, but I'm not sure if that applies to non-Mormons. When we lived in NY state, there were programs regarding heating/cooling subsidies. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MomtoCandJ Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 What state do you live in? They are supposed to do the interview within 30 days (at least in MI and GA). Also try for cash assistance, it can't hurt any and also try your local Community Action, they can help with housing and utilities Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MomtoCandJ Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Oh and the local Red Cross Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heatherwith4 Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Praying for you :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Woodland Mist Academy Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sbgrace Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AlmiraGulch Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 I sure hope things turn around for you soon. Fingers crossed..... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Catwoman Posted June 17, 2014 Share Posted June 17, 2014 Praying here, Gillian. :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
twinmami01 Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Praying for you and your family. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jean in Newcastle Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ethel Mertz Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Prayers, good thoughts, and hope for some relief sent your way. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kelly1730 Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 I'm so sorry that things have been so stressful for your family. I will certainly pray for you and I second the suggestion to reach out to your local church. Ours has a benevolent fund just for situations such as this one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
East Coast Sue Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Hugs and prayers. Please reach out to local churches and allow them to give some assistance. I will keep you in my prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mom2scouts Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 I'm sorry. We were in a similar situation recently. My dh lost his job and was unemployed for over 2.5 years. It is very scary and my husband was not willing to apply for food stamps or other aid. My dh has two college degrees, but finally had to take a low paying job without benefits, but it is steady work. (((Hugs))) and prayers that your dh will come up with something soon. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
marbel Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: Yes, check out local churches for help. We have a diaconal fund to help people in the community. There is no obligation to attend the church. Also check with the utilities for hardship help. Obviously I don't know anything about your location but every place I've lived has had some sort of help. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trish Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Catholic Charities helps anyone in need without regard to religion. They also offer good references to other services. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThisIsTheDay Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 August?? Seriously? There is a 30 day processing requirement, and I can't believe that's not a FEDERAL requirement. They have to give you an answer within 30 days, getting in your appointment, although you might have to get additional verification (10 days max). If you PM me and tell me your state, I will triple check that for you. Even shorter than the 30 day requirement is a provision for "expedited" benefits. To qualify be "expedited," you must have ONE of these: If your monthly income plus money in the bank adds up to less than your monthly housing expenses (which includes rent or mortgage and utilities). Your utilities will be determined by a federal standard, which I believe varies, depending on your locality. OR Your monthly income is less than $150, and you have less than $100 in the bank. (There is also a provision for migrant farm workers, but it seems clear from your post that doesn't apply to you.) This should have been determined by the agency at the time you filed your application. IF you qualify for this, and they did not catch it, call them tomorrow. If you qualify for expedited, the agency MUST determine eligibility and provide benefits within 7 calendar days. (Did you turn your application in in person? If so, did they give you a Hotline sheet? It's required!) There are a few clarifications that are determined by state, but in general, these are all major program standards, and the states don't have a choice. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PrincessMommy Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 praying. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jewellsmommy Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 prayers said :grouphug: . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lmrich Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Praying. How tough. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laurie4b Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Wow, that's hard! :grouphug: Prayed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mergath Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: I can't believe they're taking that long for food stamps! That's completely unacceptable. Do you have friends or family you could stay with if you lose your job and can't pay for housing? Also, are there any temp agencies your dh could get at least some work though? I know around here, the temp agencies are always looking for people, especially if you're good with computers or have any kind of machining experience. And a lot of the temp agency jobs here often lead to permanent work. Also, does your city have a workforce center? We have them all over the place here in MN- not sure if that's a nationwide thing or just a state thing- but they'll help you hunt down work, and often the workforce employees have some great connections. That's how my dh found his current job. The workforce center got him into a manufacturing company though a state job training program. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FloridaLisa Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 I'm sorry. Praying that you have some provision and opportunities for your dh soon! Lisa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mandylubug Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nevergiveup Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Sometimes people list extra garden produce on Freecycle; or barter weeding for produce. Also sometimes the large vendors at Farmer's markets hire people for piece work. I know it's not much, but my friend always has a hard time finding workers. Lots of seniors need an extra hand once in awhile and are willing to pay: cleaning gutters, moving furniture, odds and ends around the house, mowing, trips into town...Once again, I know it isn't much but... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Soror Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 I'm so sad to read about your hardship :( Thoughts, prayers and good wishes for you. Another thought on assistance is the local Catholic church I know ours has help for bills, food etc for those that need it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kfamily Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
creekland Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 Is relocation an option? If so, what kind of work are you looking for (or your dh)? Perhaps a boardie might know something and offer a pm to a link/connection. I'll second the temp agency ideas. Around here they can be beneficial at getting "a" job, then one can continue a search (which ironically, often is more successful than getting hired without a job). And churches... not just for food or supplies, but many times, employers attend church too and networking can find jobs that aren't listed otherwise. (Pastors or others who assist with food/supplies can know who to check with for jobs.) No matter what, you have my prayers and :grouphug: . Try not to get discouraged (though I'm sure that's tough!). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Miss Mousie Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 I'm so sorry it has been so hard. :grouphug: I hope some of the suggestions here prove fruitful for you, and I wish you strength and peace as you move forward and through this dark time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LucyStoner Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 First, lots of hugs to you. That is not an easy thing to juggle. Are there temp or day labor types things available where you are for him to do something? Here, you can more often than not get something for the day if you walk into LaborReady willing to do any random work. Also, what is your housing plan? Have you explored options for income based rentals and such if you can't stay in your current home? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThisIsTheDay Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 We're waiting for a food stamps interview, but that's not until the end of August, and I am praying things will be better by then. Found it. Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR 273.2(e) (3) : The State agency must schedule an interview for all applicant households who are not interviewed on the day they submit their applications. ... The State agency must schedule all interviews as promptly as possible to insure [sic!] eligible households receive an opportunity to participate within 30 days after the application is filed. ... If this isn't happening, I would suggest you call your state Department of Social Services NOW (different than your county). Also, if you were given a Hotline sheet (which they are legally required to provide when you personally submit your app), look at the numbers on the back, and call. (Are they maybe Legal Aid types of numbers for non-compliance?). Additionally, you may try calling the local DSS director, although they likely know what's going on already in their agency. I do wonder if you were given a hotline sheet, because it clearly lays out the responsibilities of the agency in making that determination within 30 days . . .(It seems they would be unwilling to give out this info if they are clearly violating it.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MercyA Posted June 18, 2014 Share Posted June 18, 2014 :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: and prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
momto2Cs Posted June 18, 2014 Author Share Posted June 18, 2014 Thank you all so much. In regards to some points above - thank you for the church suggestion. Not being a church-going family, that didn't even occur to me. Food stamps - no, I didn't get any fact sheet. I left a message with my case worker yesterday asking why it has been scheduled this way and am waiting for a call back. He has signed up with three temp agencies as of this week, so we're hoping. We are also going to an open house/job fair at a local restaurant today, and have very high hopes! I also applied for weekend work as a grocery clerk. I have 8 years experience in that field, so may be able to find something supplemental. Yesterday I felt at my lowest. Today, I feel like there is some hope, and that we will get through this! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Soror Posted June 19, 2014 Share Posted June 19, 2014 Well, hope is something, so glad to read that today is a better day. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mom2samlibby Posted June 19, 2014 Share Posted June 19, 2014 I'm sorry. Have you considered moving? Is that an option? I can't go into any business in our area with out seeing a help wanted or we're hiring sign. Lots of jobs available here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Amy in NH Posted June 19, 2014 Share Posted June 19, 2014 My Dad is highly trained and skilled at a few different jobs with a lot of experience, as is his wife. When they were both laid off at the same time a few years ago they both worked as many hours as they could get as sale's people/cashiers at Cabella's. It wasn't anywhere near the type of jobs they were qualified for, but they did it to pay the bills and it got them through a tough spot. I would encourage your dh to look at something "beneath him" until he can find the right job that fits his skills. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
readinmom Posted June 19, 2014 Share Posted June 19, 2014 Hugs and prayers coming your way... Dh and I lived this for three years. I feel your pain and your worry. It will get better... :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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