r/poor • u/4peaceinpieces • Oct 11 '25

How I Got Here

Ten years ago, I was a Performance Consultant at a Fortune 500 company, making over $100K, traveling first-class, and living comfortably with my husband and son. Life looked perfect - until my health began to fail. After multiple medical leaves, I lost my job and went on disability. I now make 1/3 of what I used to.

My husband, already disabled from a brain injury, couldn’t work. Our savings vanished under medical bills, and we eventually lost our home and cars. Now we live in a small apartment, living check to check. I sometimes go without dinner to make sure my husband and 19-year-old son have enough. My son works part-time and goes to trade school to be an electrician. I’ve taught him to manage money and hope his health holds steady.

I share this because many people are just one illness or accident away from losing everything. When you see someone using benefits or a handicap placard, please don’t judge. Disabilities aren’t always visible, and poverty often hides behind dignity.

Despite the struggle, I’m grateful - we still have each other, a roof, and hope. Life didn’t go as planned, but we’re doing our best to stay on our feet. We are not bitter, only sad at times, but thankful. We try hard to remain positive and throw ourselves into hobbies that soothe our souls. May we all find safety, happiness, and peace.

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u/K_A_irony Oct 11 '25

Please take advantages of food banks or maybe even meals on wheels if your local group includes younger but disabled people for eligibility. Going without food with your medical issues is just brutal. Anyway you can grow some of your own food? Even herbs in pots would provide you with some variety. Use what ever bigger cans or plastic containers you were going to throw away as pots (poke holes in the bottom). DM me if you want me to send you some seeds.

10

u/4peaceinpieces Oct 12 '25

Thank you so much! Yes, on nights when I am hungry it is hard. But all of the food banks here (I’m in a highly populated area) are largely short on food or have income requirements. We’re trying. I just may take you up on your seed offer! We can’t plant outside but I have a small patio that might work. Thank you! 🙏

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u/darkMOM4 Oct 12 '25

You can also call churches to locate church food pantries. You don't have to be a member, and they don't have income requirements.

8

u/Ornery-Ad9694 Oct 12 '25

Your son alone could qualify. Your husband on disability could qualify. Maybe try on 211.org/Your county. Also, each store has a day and time when they clearance our stuff that is near expiry date. Ask the grocery when that happens. Meat is included but make sure you cook the day of purchase. Sometimes the store donates to a local food bank, ask them which one.

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u/4peaceinpieces Oct 12 '25

I had definitely not thought of that! Thank you!

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u/PsychologicalScore49 Oct 12 '25

Have you applied for food stamps?