Raise your hands if your pockets and purses are feeling the pressure of holiday shopping? Not only is gift shopping an extra expense, but every thing from heating bills, fuel, and even grocery prices skyrocket this time of year. So how can we manage when so many have been laid off or stretching their paycheck thinner then rice paper? I have a family of five, so I definitely have to find all types of resources to make it from October until February every single year. Between costumes, large home cooked meals, presents, and New Years Eve festivities it can be hard to make those dollars last! One GREAT idea: turn the HEAT off when you leave the house. No one is home so why keep the couches warm? lol But here are a few resources to help make it through the holiday season:
Toys for the Children:
Toys for Tot's http://www.toysfortots.org/request_toys/toys.asp
United Way Call 211 from a land line in some states. They will direct you to Churches and Community groups that can sponsor gifts for your family. http://liveunited.org/
Also check out eHow article to locate nationwide gift programs: http://www.ehow.com/list_6696047_programs-offer-toys-kids-christmas_.html
Utility Bills/Rent:
Metro-Atlanta refer to http://www.psc.state.ga.us/consumer_corner/cc_advisory/payassist.asp
South Gwinnett County for gas, food, and job assistance visit http://www.psc.state.ga.us/consumer_corner/cc_advisory/payassist.asp
Don't forget you can use your Kroger card at SHELLS Gas and Kroger Gas to save on gas per gallon.
Nationwide every state has a Low Income Heat Program, please Google with your zip-code and contact your local office.
Coupon/Daily Deal Sites:
Metro Atlanta this site is updated ALL DAY LONG, an awesome resource http://thecoupondiva.com/home/
Groupon a daily coupon site that has DEEP discounts based on how many people participate in the deal available in VARIOUS CITIES WORLD WIDE http://www.groupon.com/r/uu3353174
Scout Mob, another group discount site based on participation and make for GREAT gift certificates for the LOW ;) http://www.scoutmob.com/atlanta/
If your in the position to give, then please drop an unwrapped gift off at your nearest Toys For Tot's donation location!
Enjoy your Holiday's!
Ladae
