Released March 6, 2009
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. -- If your income is not covering expenses, you and your family face tough choices. Remember to involve family and friends in your decision-making. Reaching out for help during times of financial stress may make the difference in whether your family emerges from the crisis with its emotional and physical health intact. Supportive people in one or more of the following agencies and organizations may help you work through the problems that accompany a temporary crisis or a long-term life change. You pay for many of these services through tax dollars and community support. Tap these resources as you face the thriving in challenging times!
Finding Work
Visit your local career center for the following services:
- Skill assessment and career development plan at no charge
- Free access to the Internet, résumé writing programs, telephones and fax machines for job hunting
- Lists of job openings locally, regionally, statewide and nationally through the Job Central National Labor Exchange
- Staff to assess job skills and make referrals to job openings
- To locate the one nearest you, call (877) US2-JOBS or visit them on the Web at http://www.servicelocator.org/
Credit Counseling
Contact your local service center for the following counseling services:
- Budgeting
- Debt
- Bankruptcy
- Foreclosure
- Homebuyer
- The Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Alabama's toll-free number is (800) 662-6119, or visit the Web at https://budgethelp.com/main/main.html.
Cash/Food Assistance/Housing Assistance 211
- A national program that connects people with important community services, including housing assistance, food assistance, utility assistance and much more.
- For help finding resource in your area, dial 211 from any phone or visit the Web at http://www.uwca.org/get_help1.html.
Local Churches, Ministerial Alliances, and Food Pantries
- Provides temporary assistance in the form of food, clothing and household items
- To find services available, inquire at a church in your community
Small Business Development Consortium
- If you are considering starting a small business or if you would like some counseling for your current business, contact your local Small Business Development Consortium, located on university campuses throughout the state. You can visit their Web site at http://www.asbdc.org/ to find out more information.
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Contact: Ruth Brock, (205)274-2129
