As we have finally entered the “BER” months of September, October, November, December, we are reaching closer to the Holiday season. We just had Labor Day in September, Fall is upon us, Harvest season in October, Thanksgiving in November, and Christmas/Hannukah/Kwanzaa Holidays in December. The holidays can be especially taxing for those without income. Many already struggle with providing every day food and medications for themselves or loved ones. You may have children that expect gifts that you just may not be able to afford. This is especially true when dealing with the lengthy wait times in a Social Security Disability claim.
If you are in need of resources, check with some of these organizations: The Salvation Army in Mobile and coastal areas help the working poor, jobless, seniors, and homeless individuals who need emergency assistance. The Salvation Army will help people of all backgrounds, religions, and cultures. They offer holiday dinners at Christmas, and seniors and the homebound may also have items brought to their homes. Other holiday aid includes gifts from the Angel Tree program and much more. Emergency financial assistance can help with utility assistance including water, electric bills and more. Rent assistance is available to families who qualify and are faced with an eviction. There are programs with pantry and clothing closets which offer meals, groceries, and gently used clothing. I also encourage people to contact their local churches as many are offering food baskets or gifts during the holidays.
I encourage you to look at what you can be thankful for this holiday season. It may not be your health, but it may be your loved ones, the roof over your head, or the friendship of the person you call in times of need. If you know someone struggling, reach out and see how you can be of assistance.
For those of you who are blessed this holiday season I encourage you to not be locked into certain ideas about people suffering financially. Many times, people feel that the poor are undeserving of empathy or help, and it drives policies that increase the suffering of clients like mine. I see people who had good jobs and paid their bills, but sickness, whether physical or mental, brings them to a place of suffering. I encourage everyone during this time to be a little bit more open minded, a little bit kinder, and look for those struggling and lend a helping hand however you can.
We here at Gardberg and Kemmerly have been helping the disabled for over 35 years. Please call our office at 251-343-1111 for a free consultation on your VA and SSA claim. Gardberg & Kemmerly specializes in helping the injured and disabled in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida, and Louisiana.