So after struggling for over a year to make ends meet and pay down my debts and failing miserably even with a full time job and following a promotion, I have made the difficult decision to go on food stamps. There are just a lot of issues that have cropped up that are not getting addressed simply because I happen to need to eat. My college loans are screwing me so hard, and a series of emergencies have left me with an almost $3000 credit card bill as well as a new car payment. I live $3000 above the poverty line and I've been living on crap as it is, and it's starting to take it's toll. I just can't find any more corners to cut. I've made peace with this decision by resolving that I am not going to be on them forever- just until I get my debts paid off, which is priority #1. I only have less than $8000 worth of debt- a nasty parking ticket to some people- but I'm not able to pay any of it down because I literally only make enough to pay minimum payments. This is after two raises in the past year. I don't know how other people do it. I just know I can't anymore. The good thing is, I found a local co-op that not only takes food stamps, but will let people who qualify for them become a member for a discounted price. So I can use my assistance to buy quality, real, wholesome food as well as support the community and get a discount along the way. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I'm going to be okay. I'm going to the doctor and getting things checked out that have been long-overdue (suspected a gall bladder issue for over a year now, but haven't had the money to pursue it, also a breast lump that I am finally having ultrasounded in a couple of weeks). I'm going to be getting glasses, going to therapy, getting my car fixed, finishing getting my apartment furnished (and by furnished, I mean actually getting a dresser for my clothes so I can stop living out of boxes and a box spring for my bed, which has been a mattress on the floor screwing up my back for a year). I'm going to be a fully functional human being for the first time in my life instead of trying to fly with a broken wing and weight tied to my leg, and I refuse to feel bad about it anymore. I have a plan and it's going to work, and I am going to be okay.
Glad things are going on the right track. What field do you work in? Are you living alone or do you have people to split the rent with?
Public assistance was meant to be a safety net that allows each individual to reach their potential. Use it wisely.
I dont know how people do it either. The cost of living is extremely high. The only reason I'm able to make ends meet is because I was lucky enough to come across a rental house that's about $300 below average for my area. The house itself isn't that great but its in a nice part of town, unlike any other house in this price range which are always located in the ghetto. If I didn't have this house I would be destitue trying to scrape together rent for an overpriced apartment. I really don't know how other people do it. so I guess what I'm trying to say is ain't no shame in your game. Times are hard
Nothing to be ashamed about taking what you need. Furthermore, take it as long as you need and are able, such that you get the biggest possible boost upwards from it.
I live alone. Worked really hard for my own space and could not imagine giving it up after what I have been through... I am a caseworker for a company that makes veterinary analyzers. It's the most I have ever earned and would be fine enough if I didn't have all these payments...
food stamps are what governments are for. feeling better about yourself is what not staying on them any longer then you need to is for. best of luck, happiness and life, to you.
It's nice to hear about those using PA in a constructive manner. Best of luck to you. Also, I hear you on the student loans. Until recently, my monthly student loan payments were more than my mortgage. Luckily, my husband and I made a really good investment a couple years back, and I was able to eliminate a lot of the debt. Between my husband and I, we are making well over $100,000 per year, however we were/are always having to nickel and dime things.
