We believe in the benefits of meal planning here on Meal Planning Mommies, but we also know that meal planning and grocery shopping can be very stressful for families who are struggling financially. I get it. I’ve been there. With Christmas around the corner, talk of what gifts to buy and how much to spend and all that “fun” stuff, might not be so fun for someone who is having a hard time affording just the basics from week to week.
Growing up, my parents went through seasons where it was difficult for them to make ends meet. Sacrifices had to be made, and finding outside help was necessary during times when my dad was in the hospital for several days and when he lost his job. Holidays are a lot less jolly for a parent who just called the electric company to ask that their heat not get shut off, even though they still couldn’t make last month’s payment. In my childhood, there were years of extravagant gifts, followed by Christmas’ with the gift of new clothes… that we really needed anyway, because that was what we could afford… and that was okay! It taught me to be resourceful, grateful, and creative. Truly, Christmas is about the Savior coming into the world and I know that, but still I would love to be of help to moms who are trying to figure out how to make next Christmas more fun than this one.
Before I dive into this topic let me just share a little piece of perspective by saying this:
There is a difference between POOR (with hope) and POOR (with NO hope).
I am sure that somewhere along the way you have probably heard that even our poor, in America, are rich compared to many others in other countries. Currently I am working for a non-profit organization that serves children in countries where there is no hope. No assistance. No food. Children are literally abandoned and starving to death in countries where there is no government assistance available to them. Kids Alive International provides food, a safe place to live, and clothing for some of these children all while teaching them about the love of Christ. We, in America, are not indifferent to the sufferings of those across the globe anymore. We are informed and we care. We ache for those who suffer, even if we do not know their face or name, and we WANT to do something to make a difference. Many of us think we do not have the resources to make a difference, but most of us do! Please, if you want to tap into a program that is already making a difference and become part of a bigger solution, take a look at Kids Alive International and see if there is someway you can connect.
On the flip side, I do NOT want to make small of the fact that there are many in America who also need legitimate help financially.
There are many reasons why a person could be struggling financially but there are also many resources in America that allow even our “poor” citizens to have most, if not all, of their needs met. The reason for that is organized help. People who saw a need and set up a plan to help, and then carried out that plan using the resources around them. Hospitals were started in this way. Businesses. The government. And so many organizations! I want to take a moment to mention some of the things that are available in America for moms who are struggling to put food on the table this Christmas.
Alisha’s suggested ideas for families needing financial assistance in America…
First and foremost, look for what is available in your community. Do a google search. I live in Valparaiso so I googled, “Financial assistance in Valparaiso, IN” and I found “Porter County Assistance“, with a long list of resources with specific addresses or phone numbers for each place. Each community has different resources available that are unique to that community, but there are also some resources that you can find that will help you no matter where you are in the United States, and many of these resources you can find with a click of your mouse. Here are just a few…
COUPONING WITH CRYSTAL PAINE
Moneysavingmom.com is one of many sites out there that is designed to help moms learn the tricks of couponing. Crystal Paine is the author of this site. Her approach is very inspirational as she shows by example that moms can do something about their financial state. She not only teaches her readers how to save money, but how they can earn it as well. She encourages her readers to look for the peace that flows out of a spirit of contentment while learning how to practice financial discipline. Check it out. Sarah and I both have been encouraged and inspired by Crystal Paine. Getting government help may be necessary for a time, but praying for, and looking for ways rise above and become financially stable will be what’s best for you, and your family, in the long run.
BUDGETING WITH DAVE RAMSEY
I have never personally gone through Dave Ramsey’s program, but I know many who have managed to get themselves out of debt by following his advice. He has all kinds of resources out there to help with budgeting and gaining control over your money. You can visit his website to get immediate advice or if you like what you see, you can purchase one of his books or you can do his full 90 study. Right now he is selling all of his books from his website for just $10 each.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children)
Help for moms or moms-to-be. Specifically moms who are, “low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women to infants and children up to age five.” WIC offers “checks” that are good for food such as eggs, cheese, produce, juice, milk, and peanut butter, among other things. It is very easy to see if you are eligible. Click on the link above and see if this can help you. If it can, contact the WIC office closest to you.
SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is something many people have at least heard of. What you might not know is that food stamps aren’t actually used anymore, but rather a card that looks just like any other credit or debit card! Money is put on the card for you to buy your food with. Check out this site for more info, and to learn if you qualify.
FREE AND REDUCED BREAKFAST AND LUNCHES AT SCHOOLS
Fill out an application at your child’s school to see if you qualify for free or reduced price (less than $1) lunches! Talk to your school secretary for more information. Many schools serve breakfast at the beginning of the day as well. There is also a special milk program.
FOOD PANTRIES and FOOD BANKS AT CHURCHES OR ORGANIZATIONS
Growing up my parents received food from the “food pantry” at the church we attended. It is not uncommon for churches to provide food or toiletries that have been collected by members of that church. Many churches who are not able to help are able to point you to a place that can help you. Get involved in a church community. There are so many blessings that come along with doing life with a church family.
Need help with more than just food?
Click here to read about how you might be able to get help with dental care, winter heating bills, daycare, help with home repairs, free Christmas toys, free cell phones and landlines, and even discount internet services.
Lastly, and most importantly, PRAYER:
If my mother taught me anything, it was to pray! Her faith was planted in God’s faithfulness even when the storms of life rolled in. I asked my mom what advice she would give to a mom who is struggling financially. She said to get involved in your community and in a church, and to pray and trust God.
I love this quote…
I hope you were able to find some of this helpful!
If you have anything you would like to ask or share please feel free to drop us a comment, or you can always contact us here.
Anybody else know of any other great resources out there for moms who are struggling to feed their sweethearts? We would love to hear your ideas!
Tina@treaured tidbits says
I love this. Going to share this link on my chronic illness blog Facebook page and in a future blog posts.
I had wanted to do a post on this subject but you nailed it. Thank you for addressing such a touchy subject and sharing such great resources.
Alisha Hughes says
Thank you for the feedback and for sharing this post! Appreciate it! God Bless!