At the grocery store, consumers should make a shopping list and cut back on convenience foods that cost more. If food expenses are a concern, a laid-off worker may want to look into food stamps, a program of the Division of Family and Children. Even people who have a job may be eligible, she said. Food, clothing Food pantries such as the one run by Lafayette Urban Ministry can also help, said executive director Joe Micon. The LUM pantry does not asks the recipient for income information.
Volunteers do ask for the names of household members and the address.
This week was the first time Lafayette Urban Ministry has seen laid-off Wabash National workers who needed assistance with shelter and utilities. If health insurance is a concern, Medicaid can provide coverage for families whose income has fallen below federal and state guidelines, Oberholtzer said. Income limits vary for pregnant women, young children and older children. Secondhand stores such as Goodwill Industries can also help consumers stretch their dollars. Besides women's clothes, the stores carry children's clothing, toys, household goods and furniture.