Modest Needs: Underemployed/Unemployed Part 2

Yesterday we discussed ways to get past the hurdle of unemployment and getting your hours cutback. But what if you start falling short when it comes to covering your basic needs? It's bad enough when you can't get a mani/pedi but what about when you can't pay your car insurance?

If you are unemployed and meet their financial criteria, you may be eligible to apply for an unemployment bridge grant. Unlike a loan, a bridge grant is money given to you that you do not have to pay back. The money is granted through Modest Needs and must be used to cover certain designated expenses. The grant recipient must be unemployed through no fault of their own. They also must not have found a job yet or be receiving unemployment benefits at the time.

The grant is directly remitted to the creditor to pay for emergency expenses such as health insurance, auto repairs, housing payments and child care. The maximum amount of a Modest Needs grant is $1,000, hence the name Modest Needs.

Other grants offered by Modest Needs include independent living grants, back-to-work grants and self-sufficiency grants. To apply, you must have ongoing access to a computer so you can keep track of your grant apps. You might also need to use a scanner to send certain portions of the grant application.

While Modest Needs won't pay for those hot new jeans and shoes, it will help you keep your shirt on your back until you find another fabulous job.

Unemployed? Underemployed? How To Get By - Part 1

When a fashionista finds herself unemployed or underemployed, it becomes a major crisis. Of course the first things to go are a manicure, pedicure and designer clothing. As the situation worsens, you may find yourself falling short when it comes to utility bills and groceries. How can a girl get by during tough times? My latest series will give you a wealth of resources to keep your head above water until better days are back.

Let's start with the stuff you need to cut out once you find out your job has gone down the toilet:

1. Handle your own beauty treatments. Invest in salon products and do-it-yourself. Even if you have savings, you will no longer be able to enjoy the pampered lifestyle to which you have become accustomed. OPI nailpolish, Nailtiques and grooming accessories will help you maintain stellar nails and toes. CHI hair products and grooming tools will keep your hair looking its best when there are several weeks between salon appointments. Loreal Colour Experte is the best way to keep your hair looking lovely and multi-dimensional when you can't drop a hundred or two for foil treatments.

2. Work with what you've got. This is not the time to add to your wardrobe. Work with what you have. Buy a couple of accessories to revamp your look in seasonal colors. Remember, your classic clothes are always in style so wear them so you don't look dated.

3. Check out thrift stores. With retro looks gaining increased popularity during these tough economic times, thrift stores are making a major comeback. Get your shop on without guilt at a thrift store. You may be amazed at what you find!

Our next entry will discuss ways to deal with food during tough times. Hang in there fashionistas, help is on the way!