Other Kinds of Preparedness

We often focus too much on the very temporal kinds of preparedness. Finances, Food Storage, and Emergency Prep are the focus of so many classes and discussions.

But I strongly believe that they are secondary to other kinds of preparedness. Particularly Spiritual, Emotional, and Social. I like to think of those as muscles we can strengthen. When our bonds with the Lord, our internal struggles, and our connections with others are weak, we have a hard time handling trials. But with the full strength of the Lord, our own solid beliefs in ourselves, and wonderful friends for support, we can handle anything that life sends our way.

What can we do to strengthen those muscles?

We all know how to become closer to the Lord. Pray, study his words, attend the temple, etc. It's so simple that we sometimes forget that without work, even a strong muscle will weaken.

Our emotional strength is more individual. Some of us simply need some quiet introspection to see what amazing women they are. Some need the listening ear of a friend or the Lord. Some need the help of our wonderful relief society president, or even the bishop. And some may need to speak with their doctor about getting help. No matter what, do what you need to do. Every one of you is an amazing and powerful woman and should feel like it!

Building social strength is going to push most of us out of our comfort zones. But just at the beginning. If you are feeling alone, pick up the phone! I guarantee there are others wishing they had someone to talk to at that very moment. Make effort to reach out, and I promise that others will start reaching back. Friendships don't start, or continue, without effort. But once you've formed that bond, it won't feel like work at all.

And just in case you were thinking you needed to do all of this on your own, I'd like to point out a blog post that asks the question: "Are we trying to be too self-reliant?" (Click the underlined section to go to the post.) These muscles mentioned above a resources that we SHOULD draw on in times of need.

Something to ponder today.

RSS Feed

As requested, I've added an RSS feed button to the sidebar.

For those of you who know what that means, there is a button for the posts and another for the comments. I'm excited to have the comment feed so that all of us can share finds like the strawberries for 99 cents a pound at Newflower market (through Wed 3/18).

For those of you who have no idea what an RSS feed is but who read a lot of blogs, comment! If people want to know, I'll post about what RSS is, how to use an RSS reader, and how much time it will save you.

Outside Support

Because we have so many who have lost jobs (or accepted pay cuts to keep them), we're starting this site off by discussing the resources we have to support our families. The first ones many of us think of are "inside" our networks of family, friends, and church. Each of those is wonderful, but is limited. Most of our families, friends, and wards are also struggling to handle burdens larger than their resources. So it's time to look "outside".

Following is a list of a few of the programs available to those with little or no income. (Don't automatically assume that you make too much. Many of the programs take into account your expenses and have income limits higher than you'd think.)

2-1-1
This should be your first call. They are a confidential, free resource for basic needs assistance. They can help you find resources for food, clothing, employment, financial needs, health care, housing, and transportation. They will gladly help you find exactly what you need for your particular situation.

Food Stamps
Apply online at www.yourtexasbenefits.com or call 211 to find the nearest benefits office for an appointment. Be be prepared with documentation of your income, assets, and expenses as the application is very thorough.

WIC
Food assistance for children under age of 5, and women who are pregnant or nursing a child under 12 months old. Call 800-942-3678 to find your nearest clinic. (The Pflugerville office is 512-251-2120.) Your application appointment will include a medical exam for each person applying and discussion of their nutrition.

Medicaid and CHIP
Medical coverage for the entire family. There are quite a few different programs available and also private groups who will assist those in need. Call 211 to find out your options.

Health Insurance Premium Payment Plan
Already have health insurance, or don't qualify for a Medicaid Plan? Call 800-440-0493, or ask 211 if this is an option for you.

Utility and Rent Assistance
There are government and private programs available. 211 will be able to let you know which are available to you in your area. Additionally, if you qualify for (and receive) any type of government assistance, contact your electric company. For most, they will automatically enroll you in a program to reduce your bill.

Dental Care
There are many different groups who offer discounted or free dental care. Especially for children. Contact 211 to find one that matches your needs.

Angel Food Ministries
A food-relief organization. One order feeds four people for a week at a cost of about $30. There is no income requirement. AND, they accept food stamps. Our closest host site is Our Savior Lutheran Church at 1513 East Yager Ln. Their phone number is 512-836-9600 and you can order in person or online at www.oslaustin.org. The monthly order deadline and pickup date will be on our list of upcoming events. To view the menu for each month, visit www.angelfoodministries.com

If you have additional resources to share with the rest of us, please add it to the comment section.