8 Resources to Help Meet Essential Needs in the Event of a Crisis
We talk about the importance of having a well-stocked emergency fund and wiggle room in your budget. Although that’s ideal, living paycheck to paycheck without a savings cushion is the reality for millions. And a sudden loss of income, reduced benefits or an unexpected large expense make it harder to meet basic needs like paying rent and putting food on the table. If you’re looking for help with essential needs, various charities and private companies can help.
8 Ways to Get Help with Essential Needs During a Crisis
Here are a few avenues you can turn to for help.
1. The United Way and 211
The United Way’s 211 network is a helpful resource that connects people with health and human services in their area, like finding housing assistance or food banks. You just dial 211 on your phone or visit 211.org.
Chris Preston, former vice president of corporate relations at United Way Worldwide, advises people to reach out for help earlier rather than later if they foresee needing assistance. Don’t wait until a bill that you can’t pay is due.
Click here to find your local United Way.
2. Salvation Army
The Salvation Army provides aid to vulnerable populations with services like homeless shelters and soup kitchens, as well as assistance with bills like rent and utilities.
The Salvation Army also has programs that assist specific groups, including veterans, seniors and survivors of domestic abuse.
Programs and services vary with local needs. Use this search function to find your nearest Salvation Army location.
3. Manage Debt Payments
If an unexpected change in income or benefits makes it harder for you to make debt payments, you have several options.
One is to work with debt relief companies like National Debt Relief, which specifically work with people who are experiencing financial hardship. The debt settlement company will negotiate with your creditors to try to reduce how much you owe. Our National Debt Relief review has the details on how it works.
You could also get temporary relief from interest charges with a balance transfer credit card. These cards allow you to transfer debt to them, then there’s a set period of time (the 0% APR period) where you aren’t charged interest — typically 12-21 months.
4. Food Pantries
Feeding America and its network of food banks connect millions of Americans with their local food banks. They can also provide information about how to apply for national food programs like SNAP and WIC.
You can search for a food bank in your area via your zip code or state.
If Money’s Heavy on Your Mind…
We all know the state of our finances can significantly impact our well-being. Are you struggling to cope with financial stress? First, take a deep breath.
Then, take a look at our roundup of resources to help you manage your stress and your money. You got this.
5. Utility Companies
If you believe you won’t be able to pay your next water, electricity or gas bill, contact your provider to explain your hardship. Get any agreement for financial assistance in writing rather than accepting a blanket statement that utilities will remain on regardless of payment. For example, Duke Energy has various options for people who can’t afford their bill in times of hardship, like payment plans or due date extensions.
6. Churches and Religious Organizations
Regardless of the type, most churches offer assistance to those in need.
In addition to food pantries and free meals, many churches offer assistance if you need help paying for utilities and housing. Some even help with other essentials like laundry detergent and toiletries.
The local parish office is typically the best place to ask about services available at that particular church. You can search for your local St. Vincent de Paul Society, which offers assistance with rent, food, clothing and other emergency needs.
7. Family, Friends, Neighbors and Social Networks
Sharing that you need help with essential needs on social media platforms like GoFundMe or Nextdoor won’t guarantee that someone will be able to help, but you stand a better chance than if you keep yourself in a silo.
Drowning in Expenses?
Maybe you’re scrambling after your car broke down. Or you got a medical bill you weren’t expecting. Or inflation has finally pushed your budget over the edge. Take a breath. You don’t need to go it alone.
When money is tight, these resources can help you manage unexpected expenses without stress.
8. Modest Needs
Modest Needs is a nonprofit that provides grants for low-income people in crisis to cover essential expenses like rent, utility bills and medical expenses. They give special consideration to people living alone, veterans who have recently returned home from military service, teachers and first responders.
You can learn more about the application process on their website.
Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. Deputy editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors updated this post.
