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I am in urgent need of financial help to take care of my family.

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Anonymous

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I am in urgent need of financial help to take care of my family. This is so depressing. To do everything right and then be in a space of severe need. So many companies laying off, and so many companies post jobs because legally they have to even though they are not filling them(such a waste of applicants' time). This is just me venting in what I assume is a safe space. My kids need clothes, I need money to pay rent, and take care of small things. So, many agencies I have donated to and churches won't help unless you are evicted or have an eviction notice. There used to be a time people helped each other. I have helped so many families and now that I am in need those same people are quiet. I can't be the only person that feels this way. I have posted on Upwork, posted books, and even lowered my coaching and consulting prices. Are there still people that care and want to help others??

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  1. Jessica K.

    I'm so sorry about your current situation and difficulty to find a new job. I've found success in reaching out to a few recruiters on LinkedIn to help find even temporary positions. While not ideal, at least it's some income to help get you by until you find something permanent. You should be able to apply for unemployment as well if you were laid off. Wishing you the best and finding something quickly!

  2. Anonymous

    98% of those recruiters are nothing but time-wasting...at least for me it was. And many lack any level of consideration,, as soon as they have an opportunity to make commission they go after you like a shark --but once their "corporate client" does not express interest--MOST will not even email/text or tweet you any update or communication. They go silent. Unprofessional. I would apply directly on LinkedIn, or on the company's career pages. I hope this "recruiting" industry evaporates! Literally, since most recruiters need to take courses in "courtesy" and professionalism towards the candidates! We are YOUR clients too.

  3. Jessica K.

    Luckily, I've had good experiences with many who are actually trying to help me. I have heard horror stories like you mentioned too, and some have reached out to me via text. I never respond since 1) that's not how I want to be communicated with and 2) they're extremely pushy. Agree it needs to dissolve or definitely hire better, more helpful candidates!

  4. Anonymous

    Yes there are but you really have to seek them out.

    I'm so sorry this is happening. The world has really taken a dive lately.

    I wish you well.

  5. Anonymous

    It is still not clear what profession or industry you are seeking. If you let us know people can give you tips on where to apply instead of the generic indeed.com or monster.com. try to build network on linked in with those who are in the profession you want to be aligned with. If you are struggling to find clothes for your kids, recommend shop either at the salvation army where clothes are significantly discounted or amazon.com where you can find a variety of clothes at various price points. If you cannot get a job in your specific profession, try in areas where it may be easier to obtain a steady income. For ex customer service at insurance companies are always hiring. Its a good way to get stabilized income until you can get your bearings and peace of mind to apply where you want to be. If you dont want to do customer service, you can always be trained to be a claims rep at insurance companies as well for steady income and it pays more than customer service at most insurance companies. So be opened to expanding your search to get your priorities met such as income and then work out a strategy to be aligned with where you want to be. If the profession you seek is not a stable industry, then maybe consider it as a hobby, or side hustle moreso than a career.

  6. Looking for a change

    I would recommend searching FlexJobs.com or Glassdoor but without knowing what you are looking for it's tough to recommend a specific website. I would also look to see if there's an unemployment center in your town and visit them for help or reach out to unemployment through your states official website.

  7. JJ

    In my years as a consultant I found that everyone wanted me to buy their stuff and no one had time/money to buy my stuff. Do not look with envious eyes to what you think others have and assume what they can give. Many, many families are hand-to-mouth right now but you will never see that on their social media. You are rare for being so honest., but posting anonymously does not tell us how we can help your business.

    So what do you sell/provide and who is your ideal client?

  8. Anonymous

    I love your response. and yes, we all get touched by that "envy" monster sometimes. Social Media sites make it worse...but it ain't truth! I hope the original poster will share a bit more about herself so we can help her.

  9. Anonymous

    I am so sorry you are going through this. Until you are working again, consider applying for aid from your state's department of health and human services. It's not fun, but the sooner you apply, the sooner you can get help. Even if it's for just the food assistance.

    With Covid-19 and all of it's horrible consequences, many people who have done everything right have needed to get some assistance. Just think of it as a temporary situation, and know you are not alone.

  10. Anonymous

    Easier said - than done, to think it's "temporary", when you truly do not know when you will secure work again. And work that can cover your fixed expenses. But I agree and am not beneath cleaning homes, pet sitting, working at a Target or supermarket in the interim. Also, definitely do the annoying paperwork for food assistance (EBT, i.e.,). Those recruiters are useless (my experience)--I used LinkedIn, and was on that site morning, noon and night/weekends!! But that's me, and I secured full-time employment--actually got 2 offers. If we head into a deep recession, those that have been helped in the past may not be able to financially help today. Many of us are scraping by. And others who do have a savings, are choosing to not spend, just in case they get laid off down the road. Not justifying the lack of compassion at all, we should watch out for each other. But when people are truly depleted of any means, they are scared for themselves and being out on the street. Many will say to people who are employed, "secure additional side gig", trust me--I try to do this everyday and that is also not as easy as stated. You need training, initial investment of income, nothing is free....and I have realized this by doing the legwork. Some "part-time gigs" want you to work during the weekdays. So unable to do that.

  11. Anonymous

    There are also staffing companies that may need urgent roles that are temporary. What is your background / skill set? It may be better to deal with a human being than just post your availability on an online platform.

  12. Looking for a change

    My experience is that recruiting/staffing agencies don’t work out you might go on an interview or you might not.

    You might be told they are planning on hiring “if you do a good job “ in 3-6 months but won’t hire you once contract is up. This is only my experience of course

  13. Anonymous

    I have had great experiences with recruiting / staffing agencies . You have to get signed with the right ones that have contracts with large corps. Even if the job is for 3 months there is nothing stopping the OP from looking for another perm Job at the same time.

  14. Anonymous

    How do you find the right staffing agencies??

    I would love to try this route, but not sure how to find and weed out the good ones.

  15. Jen

    Yelp is a good resource but honestly, just apply with all of them (be advised most agencies are specific to industries and/or position levels so you’ll have to do your leg work to research which agencies staff for your position).
    It doesnt cost you anything. They’ll call you to do an intake and you can decide if they’re “good” or not. Admittedly, agencies are an excellent resource — it’s another set of eyes helping you look for a job while you’re looking too.

    You may feel the world is cold but don’t let your heart turn cold too. You will find a nugget of positive energy and a ray of sunshine soon. Your courage and honesty and everybody that has commented are examples of those nuggets and rays. Manifest on these!

    All the best to you!

  16. Anonymous

    Great tips from Jen . You have to just apply to different ones . Look for the agencies that specialize in your field . If you are freelancer - Google your role and agencies will pop up. You can always get reviews on these places .

  17. Crystal Howell

    Try calling your housing authority in your county, they will have resources. Maybe American Redcross should have resources, and police will have them as well. Hope that helps.

  18. Anonymous

    When I reached this point as a freelancer I went and got a part-time job that saw me through for a while. Ain't ashamed to say I worked a Target register for $17/hour for half a year.

  19. kay Jack

    Agree ? . Getting a part time would be a great idea while freelancing . Sometimes we have to take jobs that are not our first choice.

  20. Katherine Metres Akbar, Interview Coach & Resume Expert

    I will be glad to help you. We offer a free Career Success consultation that you can access at YESwriting.com. Our services are paid, of course, but we have scholarships for those in need, as well as payment plans. As a quickie, it sounds like what would help you the most is to pick one direction and go in that. You can only comfortably build a consulting/coaching business when your basic financial needs are met, so I wouldn't put your energy in that direction right now. Once you have a job, if you prefer to be in business, you can build your business on the side until you are able to live on it full-time. The great news is that you have tons of in-demand skills.

  21. Anonymous

    I second the advice to get a survival job (in the height of the pandemic's first wave, I worked for $13.90 an hour on the bottom rung of my new field -- and that included the pandemic pay bonus) to have income and gain experience. This is not a glamourous option, but it is an option. Many fast-food and other places are hiring immediately and pay more -- don't discount the skills you can gain from this type of work or the personal growth you could get out of it.

    I'd also suggest taking a look through this link, provided through my state's Poverty Task Force for resources: https://www.needhelppayingbills.com/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

    My final piece of advice would be to shift your attitude. Hard times are hard and they hurt, but the assumptions you're making and the entitlement tone within them are not going to help you in dealing with people or in having the mindset you're going to need to face this challenge successfully.

    Good luck.

  22. Jodie Winter

    I am very sorry you are facing these problems. You are definitely not alone! The local government should have resources to help with basic needs for immediate help. For your kids clothes, what about a clothing swap with other families? Mom groups on social media are great for that!

    Have you reached out to employment services for support in job searching? Are you on LinkedIn? There are lots of remote opportunities out there for your skill sets and experience, which would reduce other costs like gas, possibly insurance, or bus fares, lunches out etc.

  23. Michelle Hoffman

    Speak with your children's school social work/counselor. Usually they know of programs to help with clothes and food. We have a local charity that runs a Kid's Closet and they work from referrals form the school counselors, social workers, and teachers to help provide clothes, shoes, personal items ( toothpaste, deodorant, etc) school supplies, etc. They also provide a weekend bag of food to some. These people can most like offer info on other programs to help.

  24. Bradford McCormick

    I wasn't going to respond because advice is cheap and does't help unless it' like: "Call this number and tell them you spoke to Mr. Me". But isn't that ironic: you were in the "employee retention" field.

  25. Anonymous

    you sound discouraged, tired, and angry. And your feelings are normal and valid. Yes, this is a safe space. :) Ofcourse, I don't know the details of your "severe need", but i sense anxiety/worry and timelines (school starting, kids need new shoes, sports fees, whatever..) and your super tight budget is accelerating. I raised 4 children, so I get that. And you are right; sometimes, in times of need...you find out who your friends really are (often, they seem to disappear!). All Life lessons, my friend. Been there/done that. I like the suggestions given here, such as talking with someone at school for reduced lunch and other resources. My church won't ask; we have an entire book supply event open to anyone. Now I'm sure you've thought of this...but have a yard sale! Get the kids to work, clean the closets out and Yard sale the excess. Good summer project and will bring in some monies. Also, Can you pick up a side gig (waitressing, babysitting, ?), Do you have an ex who owes you some child support? Is your landlord decent? (we are landlords and have given grace to our renters, even letting them skip payment for a month when in crisis. It never hurts to ask). Turn up the AC, eat at home, Sell stuff on FB Marketplace. Have you truly spoken to someone at a local church? St Vincent De Paul Society (Catholic charity) is GREAT and I pray that someone will listen and give you a hand "up"...not just a hand out. I am praying for you RIGHT NOW. Don't get discouraged. God is going to use this for good.

  26. Anonymous

    Definitely a safe space.
    Happy you reached out cause so often pride comes in the way. The sad part of your post is that I can primarily related. Do I have tangible solutions to help solve your problem - NO. But what I can tell you is I know your pain. During this time not finding a job you WILL suddenly feel incapable. Allow yourself to feel down, just don’t stay there. After doing all you could. Invest in your mental health as this is the only thread you hang on to feel sane. Don’t forget to check in with your kids, have motivational talks, check in on their mental health too, have quality time together. While you take care of the rest what is for you will eventually align. This I can promise you.

    My testimony: During this time , I always made myself available to every networking/meeting opportunity doesn’t matter with who - I left all doors open. Unexpectedly not only did I get a freelancing job to assist a CEO, but he gave me an incentive upfront to help me get back on track. I’m not where I want to be but I’m definitely in a better place.

    Im rooting for you, hold your head up high ❤️

  27. Fernanda Martinez

    https://www.avicado.com/about/careers/

    check out this company. I have a friend that works for them and loves it. Based on your experience, it seems that some of these roles could be right up your alley. For unmediated needs, I would reach out or local churches l, they always have programs to help. Best of luck to you. I’m so sorry, you are going through this rough patch.

  28. Linda ponets

    please get help from citizens advice bureau they help with vouchers food and energy vouchers, your local family support services, help for households, discretionary housing payments from your local council. THERE IS HELP OUT THERE, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I SHOULD KNOW , I WENT THROUGH A FINANCIAL ly difficult time also.

  29. Stephanie Chernoff

    The traditional channels are still the most productive, in my opinion. LinkedIn has been my best place to find opportunities. Put that "Open to Work" frame on your profile. Join the relevant LinkedIn groups. If you're looking in project management, find your local PMI chapter's website - most of them have a job board. Your professional connections may not have jobs available, but they may know recruiters that are worth working with.

    You don't need to tell people how bad your situation is, but if people don't know you need help, they won't offer, for fear of insulting you.

  30. Heather H

    It sounds like you have a wonderful background that would be a good fit for a former employer of mine, which would still allow you to do coaching on the side? You could look and see if Adams and Associates has a One Stop in your area? There appears to be a lot of grant funded opportunities for workforce development and career transitions in my state at the local and county levels also which if you can't get work through, perhaps you could make a proposal to your county to create your own county referred office that provides the services you describe. Good Luck and keep your chin up!

  31. Anonymous

    You are not alone. I am struggling with the same issues! I feel as though you are writing my story….

    I have tried the local municipalities, tried the church community, tried the 211 sources, applied for everything I can think of.

    I have a son to take care of and am self employed with an S-Corp but not making money because I am trying to collect money owed to my by way of liens in property.

    this is costing me legal fees. I am falling behind monthly but don’t qualify for financial or food aid.

    I am grateful for the medical coverage my state is providing, though it is limited and I cannot even get coverage for therapy.

    I feel for you and hope things work out. Just know, take it day by day, and you are NOT ALONE.

  32. Kristie White

    Look into Covid relief loans through SBA.
    I’m not sure which programs are still open, but it’s worth a try. Google EIDL

  33. Donna Renee DuBose

    LB Foster has several project management positions open in various locations. Check the website.

  34. EMILY KIKUE FRANK

    Have you looked into gig work? I'm not a huge fan of it long-term, but it can be great to get over a financial hump like this one. I like the site https://sidehusl.com/work/.

  35. Anonymous

    You hit it right on the head. I have been saying this for years. People don’t help you unless you doing something for them. A lot of these jobs are based on if they like you or if you know a certain person. You can be the most qualified person and still won’t get the job. All this act like this and do this is a waste of time. You can be the perfect candidate but if the hiring manager don’t like you it’s pointless. Asking for help has become a literal joke. Either they don’t respond or when they do it’s a bunch of talking about you can do it but they are not going to help you. I really don’t know what to tell you. This whole job market search is a complete mess.

  36. Kristie White

    Your skills are good and there is still project work out there. I would register with as many staffing companies as you can. For example, I just received an email about a PM job in Charlotte NC this morning. If you message me your email, I will forward.

  37. Anonymous

    Centene is always hiring they have lots of Business Analysts, Data Analysts, and Project Management positions

  38. Teri Anne Conrad

    I am so sorry you are going through this. Are you able to take advantage of any assistance programs for those affected by pandemic through your utility companies and state or local human service organizations? Do you qualify for any veteran assistance programs?

  39. Valerie

    I'm sorry you are having this experience! I want to offer that you can look at my LinkedIn and I can introduce you to anyone of my connections - you can find me under Valerie Quinata - I am happy to help.

  40. Marcia

    I’m sorry you are going through this! A couple questions for you!

    1. Have you talked to your landlord? Many will give you an eviction notice to help you get assistance-they would rather keep you than have to find a new resident.
    2. where are you located? (City and state is enough). I work for a large company that may be looking for someone in your area-your skills based on these titles are totally transferable!
  41. Anonymous

    When you give with a servants heart and no strings attached, there's never disappointment. Landlords are always willing to work with good tenants rather than lose them. Speak to yours. Network. That's your best way to find a new position. This space is full of ladies willing to help.

    I wish you the best.

  42. Traci Fellers Seils

    Look for a different avenue for your coaching services. Coaching is still big in education. You may be able to sell training or services in executive coaching to administrators. I've seen several business people make this shift.

  43. Anonymous

    PS: we all care (I"m reading thru and truly, we all do care and want to help). So please respond back, give us an update, more details...anything, so we can help.

  44. Focused755607

    A lot of state and county jobs need project management. Try there.

  45. Anonymous

    Try to join mutual aid networks on social media. I see a lot of people successfully do that on Twitter.

  46. Latonya

    Check and see if the Jewish Family & Community Center in your state has funds. They are a national organization that helps out with emergency and family needs. There is also ModestNeeds.org. Alot of agencies have monies to assist paying rent for those directly affected by COVID-19. You'll have to check for your state.

  47. Anonymous

    Your town/city may have assistance, but also visit servicelocator.org to find career support near you.

  48. Hannah

    So sorry about your plight.

    The truth is some dishonest people have taking advantage of the system and cheated, duped and hurt kind hearted people who have tried to help them, so most people are not willing to help again. You can talk to your friends, loved ones, pastor and better still people who trust you. Am sure someone will definitely respond. However, you can try this toohttps://u1821112.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=GaHZSNFz-2BI2b4uyU317GIRIAWDbKrEPRuypJzDxIomncDGWK35F8NU9wLwK-2FzvbUjumW0-2F98AeYxCzzuzi6-2BdcandmYF4gJC1dP8e5YcMHMTocBnxx5Pj7bl9CLUupoGXyzs6YXhuRxdFj-2FWfnh9W2LiOOa2Z7fm1P-2FGLp1m4MzbtHIjr6t9HZJnMsXXJc651D4nptwMv3gjuf9tTbmYMINuDLYmbrsYc5JXHeiIfHP2KXazinh9Uy6sgzfQFdyoqRyZj84LJsXuIFGOCIujYpKVBipxyIx-2FVfzG9TU6R-2BUqfgJ5GEcrRUXWscTtHq1ZSd1L_s6Vr1nE5cLSFU4xhewqxj9eJTvRE8XO-2Fv5AmMCCL2SxA1TpHSxWVFxGAXwW7X2KuM9dJ-2BHPqXf1qweCHPPz7i6KbQJcbQkYboBIY6Frq4vi-2FpTffF9Rr2RuhIOOMncXAxri3RpxI8XSMEm2VKpGvjyTnYX3Mmj5xd5osNijgcH0CQ1b2nY35jH0nnYjlZsJO7ox16N5IqdO1Pe4thMf1rWHgSTLsdEDIkcr8oLFjjK8eJO3amwjTCBjlxrs6sQZRkV2tLWMIE-2FpbUeaDh6t-2BiiVEQxtlymgACOdGCsEjpV0-3D. You can search for them and learn more about them. Wishing you all the best.

  49. Anonymous

    Whatever link you posted doesn’t work. So that’s no help at all.

  50. Anonymous

    Emergency Rental Assistance Program
    https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/coronavirus/assistance-for-state-local-and-tribal-governments/emergency-rental-assistance-program

  51. na1102

    Hi, I am not sure where you are located, but I was on FB and there is a food give away in CArteret, NJ on NOE street. maybe check that out. Also your local church has a food bank. they are there to help. hope this helps you. Also, call your utility, credit card, verizon etc and explain your situation due to covid you are having issues . they want to help

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