Jonni McCoy is a regular contributor and a great resource for frugal living. I see you did not inform your readers about simple programs that are run from either local or federal areas. Like heating assistance, electrical assistance, food and more. Not everyone knows about these programs. I know this because of a lay-off my husband is on.
Most states even have an insurance program that helps out.
Here in Iowa we have the hawk-i program for children. This is a wonderful program that allows you to have insurance at a radically reduced rates from many current insurances that most people carry. No we don't want everyone becoming dependant on state and welfare. We are fortunate enough to have a big enough cushion to see us through a year of hard times. But other jobs, like you said, help.