How can we help those who are caught up in this economic mess?

[county worker]

Over the past months I have read a lot of posts from DUers who are at the end of their rope with no hope in sight. They are unemployed and unemployment is running out. They feel abandoned by the government and the system.

Well,we've got to let them know that someone cares about them. For the first time in my life I am not very hurt by the down turn. That could all change tomorrow.

If you are like me, you can do something for those who are caught up in this recession. Become an activist. Join some group that is working for progressive change. A group that will put pressure on the government to do all it can to help those who are desperate.

In your community don't let people turn their eyes away from the problem. Make some noise, be a pest, get noticed.

We are the government. We have to force those in Washington to not turn their backs on the victims of this recession.

[sinkingfeeling]

1. Right now, I'm supporting my 40 year-old son and his girlfriend while they go back to college.

[county worker]

5. Very good,

[Sub Atomic]

2. You could also do something with a more immediate, local impact.

Volunteer at a food bank. You'll be amazed at how many there are in your city or town.

Food banks, whether they are small, neighborhood-centric operations at a church, or large distribution centers that distribute food to smaller groups in their area, could always use an extra set of hands.

You'd be amazed at the difference a simple smile can make in somebody else's life.

[county worker]

3. Good idea, maybe we could come up with a long list of things we could do and make it a permanent

thing on the home page.

[Lorien]

4. From what I understand the thing food banks need most of all is MORE FOOD

so finding ways to get local growers to contribute might be even more helpful.

[Lorien]

6. Unfortunately I'm one of those people deeply effected by the recession, as is

most of my family. My sister is also unemployed, as are my cousins and their spouses. One of my more successful cousins is providing for FOUR of our families households, and her resources are running low. It's a horrible situation all the way around-and the government really doesn't care.