People facing the loss of their homes due to economic hardship must manage immediate and urgent needs even as the real possibility of home loss looms. This applies to renters facing eviction, as well as to owners facing bank foreclosures. Friends and families should frame efforts to help in a way that respects the dignity of the recipient. Their communities are likely to be better placed to help with smaller pieces, such as a utility bill. In taking on this role, friends and family are enabling the person in need to focus on the larger goal of getting permanent and affordable housing.

Remember that these gift cards suggest a strategy for being helpful to someone you love. Stores, vendors, utility companies may differ from region to region so you should identify the best option for your specific recipient.

TIP: People in economic stress often appreciate gift cards more than tangible items. Helping to flexibly cover expenses can also help to protect credit scores and history which is a real plus in applications for housing.

What To Express in Your Card: I wanted to let you know that I am here for you. These are wild times and I understand that you did not create this situation. I offer love. There is no judgment. You would do it for me. xx

Shell Gas Gift Card

People need to get places and gas can be expensive. Enabling those trying to figure out housing to get where they need to be without putting gas in the car is very important. When people are short on cash they ration everything – if they cannot get to a job interview and also get the kids to school one of these things has to give. Help them to avoid these kinds of decisions.

Costco Cash Card

Costco Cash Cards are a fantastic way to gift Costco access to a family facing any number of needs. While you must be a member to purchase, anyone can use a Costco Cash Card at Costco stores nationwide or online. Cards are available from $25 to $1000 and can be used towards memberships or merchandise.

You can find more Product Details here.

Target eGiftCard

Who couldn’t use a gift card from Target? You can almost always find exactly what you need at Target. It has everything from food to cleaning supplies to furniture and school supplies. Gift cards that enable people to pay for things they need in life enable the recipient to move forward. Priceless.

Frontier Communications Gift Card

Utilities are expensive and can be turned off. Many utilities are regional. Remember that broadband access is not considered to be as necessary as heat, although students across the country are increasingly reliant on access to digital for learning. Help a family struggling with critical utilities to stay connected. Kids need Wifi for school, and parents need it to work from home. No one can afford to be off the grid for long.

 

Walmart eGift Card

This gift offers access to things like pharmacies when a family you love is in need. People are proud, which is understandable. Helping them to access the necessary medication to manage healthcare while respecting their privacy is incredibly considerate. Our hearts break whenever we hear about someone who made the choice to suspend insulin for lack of money.