For millions of people it just really goes against our grain to even think of asking for any help financially. We may have been brought to believe that borrowing from others or getting government assistance is embarrassing and unnecessary if you work hard enough. A lot of people are finding out right now that working hard may not always be enough.

Sometimes it does not matter how hard we have been working and how tight we make our budget, there just is not enough money to get everything taken care of. The thought of having to actually apply for food stamps or free lunches for our kids may be just repulsive. It can make you feel like a failure and really take a toll on your self esteem.

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