Not sure if everyone knew, but my ex lost his job and I lost mine in November. I've been relying on Support to cover my bills plus my unemployment and my working at the hospital. Anyway, now since I was covering daycare, utilities, etc. my money has to be redirected to the mortgage.

My frustrations come in that I have applied for assistance, foodstamps, reduced heat, WIC and discounted preschool and that I've been turned down for because I make too much money. After I pay the mortgage there is no more money. groceries I;m getting by on about 30 a week, that's just fruits, veggies and milk. I'm using up my stockpile. I put in at the Y for assistance to keep the kids in preschool and if I don't get it I'll hav to pull them out

Plus, since they let Brian go, he qualified for COBRA, however his new job, they only cover him not the kids, and again I still make too much to qualify for any assistance. HIs new job is more then half of what he was making before (he's showed me his paystubs)

Isn't the point of assistance to be there when you need it. I've paid into program, donations and such, why can't I get the help that I need now that I need it. My parents can only help so much, but the phone company, electric, propane and credit cards, no one will work with me. However, I can't leave the county and move in with my parents, but if I go back to work I'll be making money to pay daycare, gas and taxes. I just don't know what direction to go in.

It's so frustrating. People that I've help over and over again, won't help me at all. Where should I turn. I see people out here abusing the system and getting food stamps, welfare, medical coverage and just abusing it. It's making me so frustrated I'm tired of the stress, abuse and being told no. Can anyone direct me were to go and do!!

Thanks so much

Sounds like you're caught in that dreaded "middle zone" where it would actually be better for you, in some ways, to make LESS money than you are now, so you can qualify for those things. The limits they have on what qualifies for help and what does not sometimes seem ridiculous, because when you are just above the line, you're not really making much at all. Sorry, I've no ideas for you. Hope your employment situations improve.

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The only thing I can think of is selling your house and finding a less expensive place for you and the kids. I know it is not ideal, but it may be your only option.

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Maybe check with your local church and see if they can help you out!

Also, even if your ex is unemployed he still has to pay child support. So see if he can borrow from his parents or anybody to help you and the kids out. After all, they are as much his responsibliity as they are yours.

Good Luck!

We're in the same boat - scraping by, and "too much" for any aid. It is frustrating.

I'm selling everything that isn't nailed down here on Craigslist for extra money. It helps declutter, and it's extra cash.

Also, Angel Food Ministries is not income based - you can get a lot of food for $30 from them.

Other than hating our system, there's not much one can do to get public assistance if you are above their limits (which are REALLY low ).

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I was going to say the same thing. Finding a smaller place would drastically reduce your housing and utilities cost.

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I would think, however I do not know your situation, that if you do not qualify for help, but your mortgage is taking all the money, that your mortgage is now too much for you to afford. Like many people said, I would sell and find some place more affordable if possible.

Out of curiosity: we already know Brian plays games (will he be receiving income under the table?) Can the courts force him to find a job that has better insurance?

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I am so sorry about your troubles. I would call the local churches in the area and find out if any of them have a food bank. You can also call 211 to find out about any local assistance. Also try shopping at a discount grocery store like Aldi or a Save A Lot.

I agree with the others you may need to sell your home and find some place cheaper.

Also a court date may need to be in order. As far as I know insurance is part of child support.

Also call and see if your state offers a subsidized insurance plan for children. Many offer plans for inbetween people like you that cannot get federal aid. It is often offered for $1 a month.

Jen