With the unemployment rate continue to hover above 10%, everyone is feeling a little pinch in the wallet. If you know someone who is currently unemployed, here are some ideas on how you could help them with their bottom line.

1) Babysit (for those who have kids): I’ve got three kids, and getting a babysitter is not cheap at all. It can run from $7 to $18 per hour depending on whether you can get someone local from the neighborhood, or you use a professional babysitting service. For a couple who wants to get out for 3 to 5 hours, you could help them save several days worth of money to put food on their table.

2) Find them one job (or job interview): If the person you know is starting a business or consulting operation, you could either patronize their business or find them one new customer. If they are looking for a new job, use your connections, and help them get in the door with someone you know to get an interview.

3) Have them over for dinner: If you live in a neighborhood, you could organize a pot luck dinner where each person brings a dish. This can be a very inexpensive way for everyone to try different types of dishes or food while bringing your community together. If it is a neighbor, friend, or relative- have them over for dinner one night. Not only can this help them save a little money, but it could brighten their spirits in their transition period.

4) Help them with a home improvement project: The cost of labor is never cheap. If the person you know has always wanted to do some fix up project from painting the house to building a new deck, just giving your time to help out can save them money.

5) Give a gift: I don’t like the idea of giving someone a loan. If you decide to help a friend or relative out, do it because you want to see them get back on their feet. If you treat it like a loan, it may cause more pain around your expectations of when you will get your money back from them.

Other Unemployment Resources : Unemployment Extension: F.A.Q.’s , What happens when the Unemployment Check runs out? , 5 Financial Secrets to Know When You Look For a New Job

oXYGen Financial, Inc. co-CEO Ted Jenkin  is one of the foremost knowledgeable professionals in giving financial advice to the X and Y Generation.

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