Annie’s Mailbox: Mom is barely making ends meet

Dear Annie: I am a single mother of three, trying desperately to make ends meet. My paycheck is normally gone before I get back to work on Monday. I’ve been trying to find a part-time job to supplement my income, to no avail. Since my annual salary is right above the poverty line, I do not qualify for government assistance. What little money my ex gives me is not enough. When I ask him for more, he subtracts it from the next month’s support. Now that the holiday season is here, I’m sinking deep into depression. I have no extra money for a Christmas dinner, let alone presents.

There are several members of my family, as well as my ex’s, who are well off, but no one offers or even asks if I could use some help. These people know my situation is difficult. Many days I go without eating, and sometimes I can’t cook dinner because there’s nothing in the house to prepare.

I’m under a doctor’s care for depression, but my situation is really starting to get the best of me. I’ve been turned down for a raise at work. I’m not asking for handouts. What’s a mother to do when no one is willing to help? – Need a Bigger Piece of the Pie

Dear Need a Bigger Piece: Can your child support be increased through the courts? It might be possible to adjust the payments. Is there a food depository in your area for which you are eligible? Can you talk to your doctor about your medical bills or medication costs? Are your relatives aware of your financial situation? People don’t offer to help if they don’t realize help is needed or wanted. Also, you might be able to fine-tune your monthly budget with some assistance. Talk to your family, and also try the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (nfcc.org) at 1-800-388-2227.