• Although many try to avoid it, asking for help in difficult financial situations is something that many consumers have to do. Individuals may need one-time assistance paying monthly bills and utilities, while others need ongoing support to put food on the table. A number of programs nationwide assist low-income households with funds in difficult times.
  
  

The Salvation Army

• The Salvation Army, established in 1865, states on its website that it helped 30 million individuals in 2008. The organization provides its assistance through community and fellowship outreach programs, programs for rebuilding lives and opportunities for comfort and support. During the holiday season, Salvation Army volunteers commonly known as bell ringers are stationed throughout the country, accepting donations to fund Christmas dinners, clothing and toys for needy families and financial assistance for basic necessities. In addition, the Salvation Army provides disaster relief funding for victims of a natural disaster. Youth camps, recreational facilities, community centers and drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs are also available through the Salvation Army.
  
  

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

• The Low Income Energy Assistance Program, offered through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, assists low income families whose heating and cooling bills take up a large percentage of their income. Funding is provided by the federal government and dispersed by each state. The program benefits households that have a total income of not more than 150 percent of the poverty level or 60 percent of the state median income. Each state may give priority to households with the highest needs or costs in relation to their income.
  
  

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture benefits more than 40 million people each month. SNAP provides low income households with a monthly allotment of funds to purchase food. State offices administer the funds to recipients. As of November 2010, qualifying households must have a net monthly income of not more than 100 percent of the federal poverty level or a gross monthly income of not more than 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Recipients are also limited to $2,000 in countable resources and must provide Social Security numbers to receive benefits.