I’m having a serious issue with the programs available to Vermonters during difficult times in their lives.
I receive health care and food stamps, which I am very grateful for. But how am I suppose to pay my monthly utilities? You know, cell phone, electric, homeowners insurance, property taxes, cat and dog food, etc., etc.? I was told to sell some of my food stamps. How? Who buys this? I don’t want to do anything illegal, because I would be the first one to get caught. Ugh. What a predicament.
Why can I not receive some funds to pay these bills? I’ve worked for well over 30 years and the last time I received any government help was in 1983. Hmmmm? What happened to the thousands of dollars I paid in? Now that I need this money it’s not there for me. I’ve been thinking that if I stayed on welfare since 1983 then I would have no problems paying my bills now. Sad, but true.
But, I wanted to work and make my own way in life and support my sons without financial help from anyone. Just doesn’t seem fair. Or is it fair and I just don’t see it?
As of now, my house has been sold at a tax sale (I have until Dec. 5 to pay $3,200 to stay in my home of 32 years). I can’t get my Jeep inspected due to lack of funds to make the necessary “safety fixes” to get it back on the road. I have no way to heat my home this winter; the fuel company took my gas tanks due to lack of $86 payment (that’s right, $86). And I can’t get a job no matter how hard I try … but I’m not giving up.
I’m very hopeful that I will find employment soon, but until then does anyone know what state program is available to someone in my position?
Thank you and I wish everyone a job, so they don’t have to worry like I am now.
Libby Berry
Bristol