Everyone comes to a point in their life where they find themselves needing help.  If an unexpected event happens like loss of job, cut in hours, car breaks down, or medical issues then their is no money left for the rent, utilities, your week to week expenses. You may not know where to look for the help you need.  All you have to do is call 211 or 931- 552-4636 (INFO) and we will give you the information you need. Don't be embarrassed to ask for the help you need. 

Your spouse, partner, children or extended family may also be feeling anxious during these times. Talk to them, include them in planning. It helps to give each member of the family the opportunity to help you if they can. By sharing your burden you will not feel so overwhelmed.

Develop a  short and long term plan. you may need to stabilize your life before you can build another career.

If you have been laid off and can not pay your expenses, now is the time to prioritize your expenses.

            Access your available cash & current income

• Prioritize your bills, such as rent/mortgage, car payments, & medical coverage.  Don't forget your utilities & food
• What are the areas in that you can reduce your spending such as cable television, do you need two cell phones?  Check to see how much you spend each day on lunch and drinks. 
• Keep a daily written log or your receipts of what you spend during the day and see what money can be saved there.
• Talk to you family about your financial situation so they are aware that money is tight and why. Be sure to include them in the decision-making process, especially when you are discussing cutting items that belong to them.
• Make a budget and be realistic about what you really need.. A place to  live, electric and water are your first priorities. Then include other items such as cell phones, cable etc. 
• If you know you cannot pay your electric or water bill. Contact 211 immediately.

There are times in everyone's life when circumstance can disrupt life. If you are unable to make  your minimum payments on your bills, take a proactive approach & contact your creditors concerning  your financial limitations. Avoiding your creditors will only make it worse. Write them a letter stating that you are unable to make the minimum payment at this time and offer a lower payment until you return to work. Don't wait till you hear from them, do it now.

• Keep records of your written correspondence to & from the creditors
• Keep a log of all phone calls with dates, time and whom you spoke to and a brief description of conversation. 
• DO NOT MAKE PROMISES YOU KNOW YOU CAN NOT KEEP.
• Ask for low income options

• Write down on paper a detailed list of all your job skills, and your personal qualifications 
• List all the skills you acquired in your past jobs or volunteer work.

• Check out job fairs, placement services, temporary employment services, Professional Services
• Social contacts in your church, your community activities. Put the word out you are looking for work.