Safelink Wireless

Safelink is a free cell phone program targeted at individuals who already receive some form of government aid. The idea behind this is that everyone, especially parents, deserve to have access to a phone. Also for someone seeking employment, it is crucial that they be able to provide a contact number. This program is currently available in 31 states and is quickly expanding. You can sign up through their website here. If you currently reside in one of the 31 participating states and receive some kind of government aid such as food stamps or medicaid, you already qualify. They may ask you to fax or mail in proof of income or proof that you are receiving government aid. I did not have to do this though. I just told them that I was receiving medicaid (which I am) and they sent me a phone. You will get to choose between three minute packages (at least in the state of Maryland you do). Two of the packages have rollover minutes, one does not but it allows for more free minutes per month. You will receive a package in the mail with a phone, charger, and instructions on how to obtain your free minutes every month. It is pretty simple. If you have ever had a prepaid cell phone, the process will look familiar. I should stress that you are getting a basic phone here and anywhere between 60 and 250 free minutes a month. An Iphone it ain't. But free is free and if you are struggling and without a means to communicate, this could be a lifesaver for you. The program is run by TracFone, one of the first prepaid cell phone providers. You can buy extra minutes if you want to or need to are retailers like Walmart and at many gas stations. Currently you can get 60 minutes for about 20 bucks, but sometimes stores run promotions and you may be able to get them cheaper. Click the link above if you want to find out more about the program.

Welcome

I am creating this blog because it was something that I was searching for and couldn't find. I wanted advice and tips on how to survive on very little or no income. I am not talking about your run of the mill "buy a coffee pot and quit going to Starbucks every day" kind of advice. People in the situations that I am referring to would simply laugh at that idea. This is for people who have more (necessary) bills than they have income, for people living on friends' couches and on the streets, this is for single parents with very little options.

I will offer examples of my trials and errors as I navigate my way out of the hole and also observations I have made of people in similar or worse situations. I hope that many more people will offer their insights and ideas.

I want to put the usual disclaimers here, I am NOT a doctor of any kind and I do NOT work for any kind of state department. No it isn't healthy to eat Ramen every day for every meal, but it's better than starving.

Please feel free to jump in at any time.