topic Re: Help! Florida family needs help.... in Community Chat

Help! Florida family needs help....

Sunnyfield — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 03:53:08 GMT

Without going into a long drawn out story (rant), here are the high points -

Family in FL (63 year old mother, 30 yr old son, son's 10 year old son) - mom gets Social security (abt $759/month) son makes about $250/week, when he works an entire week -

They are drowning - constantly asking other family members for $$$ because they can't pay their bills.

DH and I have refused to give any more handouts, but want to be supportive and make suggestions on how to cut bills, etc.

Do any of you have experience in FL Social Services and how to go about getting assistance? Job training, etc...

We realize that both of them should be working full time...but she is unskilled as is he - are there any "Welfare to Work" programs we could direct them to?

I realize perhaps we should stay out of it, but I think we are the only ones who have a brain in this scenario...

Any suggestions are appreciated!!

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Colonel Meow — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 03:59:47 GMT

What do you mean by "unskilled"? Neither of them are skilled enough or able to work in food service or WalMart, etc? Or do you mean actual career training in a profession such as welding, cosmetology, etc?

If the mother is receiving SSDI or SSI, she may be entitled to the "Ticket to Work Program", although those resources vary greatly depending on your area.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Sunnyfield — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:17:41 GMT

thanks for your reply, Col. Meow

by unskilled, I mean no real marketable skills - she has done some cashiering in the distant past. He worked as a roofer, until he was injured and cannot do that kind of work any more (paid under the table, so no benefits). I should add, her appearance does not help her - over weight with bad teeth and very unkempt (sorry if that sound cruel, but it is reality)

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Colonel Meow — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:29:31 GMT

In my experience (working previously as a community case manager for disabled adults), the majority of these types of resources are available to individuals who have established disabilities through SSA.

And even then, agencies are woefully underfunded and often unable to provide the support necessary to ensure the success of those receiving services. This is particularly true of the more rural areas of FL, where I worked.

Hopefully, another poster may be able to give you more helpful advice.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

ROMARY — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:35:04 GMT

Surely if the mom wants to work, she can surely 'tidy' up a bit. (As I recall, Rachael Ray recently said on TV that one of her first jobs was loading and running the dishwashing machines in a restaurant.) Or the mom could work in receiving dept. of department stores, opening boxes, steaming clothing, etc., etc. There are plenty of jobs out there for folks who need a job. Maybe mom just doesn't want a job at all? Well, wishing them the best of luck. I'm thinking that there are community and/or gov. programs that can benefit this family.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Colonel Meow — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:38:42 GMT

On 9/24/2014 ROMARY said:
Surely if the mom wants to work, she can surely 'tidy' up a bit. (As I recall, Rachael Ray recently said on TV that one of her first jobs was loading and running the dishwashing machines in a restaurant.) Or the mom could work in receiving dept. of department stores, opening boxes, steaming clothing, etc., etc. There are plenty of jobs out there for folks who need a job. Maybe mom just doesn't want a job at all? Well, wishing them the best of luck. I'm thinking that there are community and/or gov. programs that can benefit this family.

Mom is 63 and disabled. I would be far more inclined to question the motivation of the 30 year old son who is supposedly unable to find work...

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Sunnyfield — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:44:54 GMT

just to clarify - the mom I this case is not disabled...and I, too, have an issue with the 30 year old who is dependent upon his brother for a job, when the brother has work to give him...

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Colonel Meow — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:47:38 GMT

On 9/24/2014 ckr1147 said:
just to clarify - the mom I this case is not disabled...and I, too, have an issue with the 30 year old who is dependent upon his brother for a job, when the brother has work to give him...

Oh, I misunderstood. You said she receives Social Security and I made an assumption. (And you know what they say about those, lol!)

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

moonstone dunes — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:48:05 GMT

If the mother receives Social Security she must be disabled. How can you expect a 63-year old disabled woman who is unhealthy, overweight with bad teeth to just up and get a job that may conflict with her SSDI. Walmart does have associates who work by riding in the carts due to physical challenges.

They should apply for SNAP benefits especially because there is a child. And the son should get off his duff and work 2 or 3 jobs! Where is the child's mother in this?

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Colonel Meow — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:53:51 GMT

On 9/24/2014 moonstone dunes said:
If the mother receives Social Security she must be disabled. How can you expect a 63-year old disabled woman who is unhealthy, overweight with bad teeth to just up and get a job that may conflict with her SSDI. Walmart does have associates who work by riding in the carts due to physical challenges.

They should apply for SNAP benefits especially because there is a child. And the son should get off his duff and work 2 or 3 jobs! Where is the child's mother in this?

Applying for SNAP is good advice. I didn't suggest it because I thought you were specifically inquiring about vocational assistance programs in FL.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

adelle38 — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:54:58 GMT

On 9/24/2014 moonstone dunes said:
If the mother receives Social Security she must be disabled. How can you expect a 63-year old disabled woman who is unhealthy, overweight with bad teeth to just up and get a job that may conflict with her SSDI. Walmart does have associates who work by riding in the carts due to physical challenges.

They should apply for SNAP benefits especially because there is a child. And the son should get off his duff and work 2 or 3 jobs! Where is the child's mother in this?

You can receive Social Security at 62. You don't have to be disabled.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

ROMARY — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 04:58:12 GMT

Yes, the son can find various 'behind the scenes' jobs in restaurants, etc. The food service industry is much of what's keeping folks employed around here. It's a booming industry.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

moonstone dunes — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 05:13:04 GMT

On 9/24/2014 adelle38 said:
On 9/24/2014 moonstone dunes said:
If the mother receives Social Security she must be disabled. How can you expect a 63-year old disabled woman who is unhealthy, overweight with bad teeth to just up and get a job that may conflict with her SSDI. Walmart does have associates who work by riding in the carts due to physical challenges.

They should apply for SNAP benefits especially because there is a child. And the son should get off his duff and work 2 or 3 jobs! Where is the child's mother in this?

You can receive Social Security at 62. You don't have to be disabled.

Yes, for some reason I assumed disability, you are correct.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

ROMARY — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 05:38:54 GMT

Around here, for whatever reason (maybe seasonal) there have been/are huge 'Now Hiring' signs in larger dept. type stores, restaurants, etc., etc. Maybe the son can take advantage of seasonal work. It's a step to a more secure, full time job. (If the employee shows a bit of interest and ambition.)

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

lolakimono — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:17:40 GMT

Florida Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

http://www.myflorida.com

Program Description

Florida's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides grants to local governments and non-profit agencies to assist eligible low-income Florida households in meeting the costs of home heating and cooling. The majority of the funds are used for utility payment assistance.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program can assist customers pay their home energy expenses. The program has three categories of assistance: home energy assistance, crisis assistance, and weather related or supply shortage energy crisis assistance. Each category has unique requirements.

General Program Requirements

In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Florida and you must need financial assistance for home energy costs.

A person who participates or has family members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or certain needs-tested Veterans benefits may be automatically eligible.

To get an application and to find out how and where to apply for help, contact your local LIHEAP provider.

Look for the county in which you live- the agency's name, address and telephone number will be located below the name of the county. Call that agency and they will help you with the application process.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

lolakimono — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:19:08 GMT

Florida School Breakfast and Lunch Program

http://www.myflorida.com

Program Description

The School Breakfast and Lunch Programs make nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals available to school children each school day. School breakfasts and lunches must meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and Federal nutrition standards. Some schools offer after school snacks to children in the school's afterschool care programs. The School Breakfast and Lunch Programs are currently administered by Florida Food and Nutrition Management and the Department of Education.

General Program Requirements

In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Florida and a parent or primary caregiver responsible for a child(ren) who attends school (high school or under).

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

lolakimono — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:20:32 GMT

Florida Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Program Description

The purpose of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is to provide temporary financial help to eligible low-income families. The program is designed to end dependence by needy parents on government benefits by promoting training, job preparation and work.

General Program Requirements

In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of Florida, either pregnant or responsible for a child under 19 years of age, a U.S. national, citizen, legal alien, or permanent resident, have low or very low income, and be either under-employed (working for very low wages), unemployed or about to become unemployed.

Application Process

There are three ways to apply for this program:

Apply for assistance at: http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess/

Call the statewide call center at 1-866-762-2237, or

Contact your local Children and Families ACCESS Service Center or local Community ACCESS partner site: http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/programs/access/servicecenters.shtml

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

lolakimono — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:27:06 GMT

Florida community action agencies

Every county in Florida is supported by a non-profit community action agency. These organizations are committed to helping the low income and people faced with poverty. An agency can sometimes refer individuals to emergency financial assistance programs. Case managers will also work with clients to provide them with longer term self-sufficiency and stability. This can include job training, employment services, and counseling.

Self sufficiency is offered in Florida. It can be called the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), PASS Program, or even the most generic term of Family Self-Sufficiency. Lower income individuals or families need to meet income guidelines. This program allows people to work with case managers, and the programs were designed to help families in Florida become less dependent on government assistance and achieve self-sufficiency. Specific services offered by your community action agency can include employment & professional development, education, health management, and financial management and asset Enhancement. Some locations may also provide income tax filing assistance and access to food and nutrition.

As part of this process, you will work with a case manager who will help you determine strengths and areas of improvement. They can assess your needs, help you set goals, acquire education or job training, and assist with overcoming obstacles. Sign up for workshops to improve financial management and your credit scores, and also even prepare for first-time home-buying.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, or VITA, allows staff and IRS trained volunteers to help thousands of low-income individuals, seniors, and families prepare their tax returns. Get help with both your federal government and state of Florida taxes. Highly trained staffs, some of who are bilingual, provide this service.

Food, meals, and government commodities are distributed to low income families on a regular basis from community action agencies. Seniors and families with children receive special attention. Some of what can be included is rice, vegetables, beans, apple sauce, macaroni and canned fruits. Surplus vegetables and fresh fruits are also available during peak farming season.

Credit counseling and budget management can help improve your financial condition. People who go through programs like these are less likely to lose their home to foreclosure or need to file for bankruptcy.

Among other things, learn how to increase your credit score and create a realistic monthly budget. Get tips on managing your credit cards and how to use them responsibly. Or a counselor can help you protect your assets from identity theft and financial fraud. Oftentimes foreclosure prevention workshops are held. HUD certified foreclosure prevention and housing specialists can work directly with your bank or mortgage servicers to find a solution. Community action agencies work closely with credit and housing counselors in Florida to provide these services to residents.

Several agencies work with credit and HUD approved counseling agencies to offer First Time Home Buyer programs. Workshops, classes, and individual sessions can assist individuals and families in obtaining affordable housing. Learn about the home buying process, how to obtain a low interest rate mortgage, and even apply for down-payment and closing cost assistance or grants. Resources are limited, and any funds for down payment are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis to income qualified families.

Career Resource Centers are located in some Florida communities. They provide services to the unemployed as well as low and moderate income people. Many clients tend to fall among the hardest to employ and include people who have limited experience, training, or skills. Some people who are helped include ex-offender population, non-custodial parents, and TANF clients.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

terrier3 — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 14:10:20 GMT

On 9/24/2014 ckr1147 said:
thanks for your reply, Col. Meow

by unskilled, I mean no real marketable skills - she has done some cashiering in the distant past. He worked as a roofer, until he was injured and cannot do that kind of work any more (paid under the table, so no benefits). I should add, her appearance does not help her - over weight with bad teeth and very unkempt (sorry if that sound cruel, but it is reality)

People suffering from depression often have unkempt appearances. People drowning in bills, living on $1700 a month (in a GOOD month!) are often depressed. I doubt they have extra money for mom to get her teeth fixed.

Depressed people have a hard time seeing a way out of their situation.

SNAP is a good first step, if they aren't receiving it already. Same with the energy program.

The son earns money...TANF is for people who aren't earning ANY money at all and have no assets. FLA is very restrictive in who can get assistance and how much. The child can get Medicaid - which will take care of vaccinations and dental work for him. Mom and son MAY qualify as well, which would help with depression, dental and any other underlying medical issues related to the overweight.

When you are under 65 (or around that age), any income earned will reduce mom's SS payment...so her working might end up being a wash.

My first job out of grad school was working in a community organization in poor neighborhoods. It's easy to tell someone to clean up, lose weight & get their teeth fixed. The underlying issues are often manifested in the outward appearance...it's not as simple as it seems.

Re: Help! Florida family needs help....

Sunnyfield — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 15:06:27 GMT

On 9/24/2014 moonstone dunes said:
If the mother receives Social Security she must be disabled. How can you expect a 63-year old disabled woman who is unhealthy, overweight with bad teeth to just up and get a job that may conflict with her SSDI. Walmart does have associates who work by riding in the carts due to physical challenges.

They should apply for SNAP benefits especially because there is a child. And the son should get off his duff and work 2 or 3 jobs! Where is the child's mother in this?

Totally agree re: 2-3 jobs for son - he is another "poor me - everything is so hard for me"" person who has many issues...

Mom worked until two years ago - fired from a job after over 15 years - we don't know the full story - she is probably depressed - who wouldn't be but, again, she does need to take some steps to help her situation - no one can do it for her. We are trying to provide some direction. There are also two more sons nearby who are doing fine, but getting frustrated with the situation as well...