by Olivia Emisar

Created on: September 18, 2010

Financial struggles are all around us, long gone are the days where only some neighbors had difficulties keeping a roof over their heads or coming up short paying for their utilities and food supplies. 

It seems that just about everyone in middle class neighborhoods could use a helping hand without being made to feel like a charity case.  A good neighbor will walk a fine line between helpfulness and charity, but with some tact and good humor we can all help each other while the going gets tough. 

- Yard sales – 

Suggesting getting rid of clutter as a community yard sale will empower your neighbor to earn some money without seeming desperate for cash. The feelings of cohesiveness and community will replace feelings of desperation. 

You can give them $200 without offending them by walking over to their section and make a few purchases that will add up to the total.  A few days later, you can donate the items to charity and get paperwork for a tax deduction. 

- Everyone has to eat – 

Nothing makes people more confident than knowing they are not alone during their worst times. Take turns with other neighbors to host a game night and serve food where leftovers will be sent home with the neighbor in need.  This saves face for the friend you are helping and allows everyone to participate in a fun activity where generosity is included. 

Share bags of extra vegetables grown in your garden.  Have a canning party with your neighbors and share the extra goodness because it is too much for your household. 

- Gasoline – 

If your kids and theirs go to the same school or are going in the same direction, simply state that there is no sense in all the cars congesting the parking lot and you will be taking their kids to school on your way to work.  If you need additional cover, state that you are doing your share to reduce the planet’s carbon footprint for the next few months. 

- Hire their kids –

Every kid needs spending money and every kid has, or can, develop skills that will help you get your chores done.  This relieves the pressure on the parents to provide the kids with money for necessities and helps the kids develop a sense of self-worth and self-reliance.  Think washing windows, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, helping carrying supplies for a remodeling project or babysitting. 

- Necessities – 

Throw together a bunch of cleaning supplies, soap, shampoo, conditioner, and even toilet paper and take it to your neighbor’s house.  Tell them that you have switched brands or have accumulated more than you can possibly use or store. 

- Paying for services – 

You may not be able, or have a need, for your neighbor’s skills and expertise, but chances are that you know people who would be willing to pay for those skills on a project basis.  It could be anything from construction to tax preparation, but everyone needs someone to do a job at least once.

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