Update and Small Prayer Request

It is not my style or nature to apply for programs for which I am not truly qualified. That said, I also am not so proud that I will not apply for things I do qualify for. The Lord helps us but we are supposed to try to help him along the way.

We are due for a hearing on the 24th regarding the denial of unemployment benefits. Frank will be facing the owner of the sandwich shop and then the arbitrator makes the decision. This could take another two weeks and then it still might not run in our favor, but we're trying. He tried so hard at this job. He really, really liked it. However, the ownership changed hands in October. At that point, the new owners inherited 7 employees. Since then, one by one, they have gotten rid of all of them but two. Frank was one of the last to go, which shows that they really had a hard time finding an excuse. It says a lot for his work ethic.

We are waiting to hear from Food Stamps, but they might be holding off because of the pending unemployment hearing.

We applied for energy assistance. They would allot a small amount (anywhere from $150 to $500 placed directly onto the power bill). They, too, might hold off to see whether they need to add food stamps or unemployment and then that might cancel out the whole deal.

I also applied for Arrearage which would at least pay the past due amounts on both gas and electric.

Frank is applying for everything he can honestly qualify for. We both agreed that distance is a big factor. If it is part time work, we worked out a maximum distance that we could afford gas for without losing money on the deal. He has interviewed; he has called; we have emailed resumes. It has only been 1-1/2 months. Last year, it took 4 months before he found the sandwich shop job. There are younger, more able-bodied people than he is who have been trying for a year without success. But, he is trying strongly.

All that said, here is what we are praying for:
food stamp approval, energy assistance approval, unemployment benefits, and funds to cover immediate needs next week.

Once again, we have too much month at the end of our money. If these things go through, because of some weatherization assistance (heater/AC-replacement, solar screens, duct sealing, etc.), our bills should decrease noticeably. We will also go down to cheaper internet connection, no-contract TV, and cell phone instead of land line. That will cut costs, too.

Father, please hear the prayers of our friends and loved ones sent on our behalf, and bless them abundantly for caring about us. Meanwhile, please understand that we want Thy will, not ours, to be done and give us the grace to accept Thy will.