Make sure to apply for food stamps and that you are signed up for government health benefits. I know those sound obvious, but they re important. Also, check with your utility companies; they have special programs which they can draw funds from, or they can tell you which places to apply to for help in paying your heating and electrical bills.

One fellow on the radio, today, who'd lost his job, said he is cutting out coupons for the first time in his life and saving quite a bit with that, as well as buying from discount grocery stores and day-old bread stores. My Rog bought a breadmaker for $5 at a yardsale and the homesmade stuff is much better than store bought.

Be careful how much extra you make, unless it is "under the table" as it can effect your benefits, if you earn over a certain amount.

You might ask the county extension agent if they have any classes on stretching your budget, esp. cooking classes and what kind of subsidies you might be able to get in the way of staples, i.e. beans, rice, flours, etc.

I know it might seem counter-productive, but if you can volunteer somewhere, even for an hour or two a week, doing something which you enjoy and can handle physically, it will help keep your spirits up a bit.

Please let us know how you are doing, Bob.

All the best,

kat