“And then my life collapsed like a house of cards.” Freelance writer Elfi De Bruyn (39) whent through some big troubles in recent years: she lost her income due to the corona crisis and became a single mother. She tells us how you can control your expenses in three steps: “I’m surprised you can fall into poverty so quickly.” During the journey out of the financial valley, Mothers for Mothers wears their crampons. And soon there will be a Christmas present…
What are some effective budgeting tips for single mothers facing financial difficulties?
Interview with Elfi De bruyn: Navigating financial Hardships as a Single Mother
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Elfi. Your story is both touching and eye-opening. Can you start by sharing how you fell into financial difficulties during the pandemic as a freelance writer?
Elfi De Bruyn: Thank you for having me. I think many can relate to my experience. The pandemic really shook the freelance industry, and I lost my primary source of income overnight. As a single mother, I was suddenly faced with the stress of providing for my daughter, Sona, and it all felt like my life collapsed “like a house of cards.” The unexpectedness of it is shocking; I was astounded at how quickly one could fall into poverty.
Time.news Editor: That’s a powerful image. You mentioned that you found support through a program called Mothers for Mothers. Can you explain how this organization helped you?
Elfi De Bruyn: Absolutely. Mothers for Mothers provides crucial support for moms who are struggling financially. They offer food and clothing at reduced prices,which can be a lifesaver. For someone in my situation, it was a tremendous help not just for my finances but also for my emotional wellbeing. Knowing I wasn’t alone and there were resources available made a critically important difference.
Time.news Editor: Your experience underscores a growing issue of financial instability among single parents, particularly during crises. Can you share your top three tips for controlling expenses during tough times?
Elfi De Bruyn: Certainly! Here are the three steps that helped me:
- Create a Detailed Budget: Track all your expenses to identify where you can cut back. Knowing exactly where your money goes is crucial.
- Seek Community Resources: Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. Programs like Mothers for Mothers can provide not just essentials but also a supportive community.
- Prioritize Needs Over Wants: In hard times,it’s so important to distinguish between what you need to survive and what you’d like to have. Focusing on essentials can ease financial pressure significantly.
Time.news Editor: These are invaluable tips, especially for those who might potentially be hesitant to reach out for help. As you reflect on your journey, what insights do you have about the broader implications of single parenting during financial crises?
Elfi De Bruyn: It’s crucial to understand that this is not just a personal issue but a societal one.Many single parents, especially women, face systemic challenges that can lead to financial instability. As a society, we need better support systems for parents that provide not just financial aid but also practical resources for education and employment.
Time.news Editor: That’s an important takeaway. As the holiday season approaches,many families are feeling the strain even more. How do you manage during this time with added financial stress,and is there anything special planned with Sona for Christmas?
Elfi De Bruyn: Yes,the holidays can feel particularly overwhelming.What’s been moast helpful for me is focusing on experiences rather than material gifts. I plan to create some joyful moments for Sona without breaking the bank. Organizations like Mothers for Mothers also organize events around the holidays, which can bring a sense of community and joy without additional financial burdens. It’s a great reminder of what truly matters.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Elfi.Your insights not only shed light on the challenges faced by single parents but also inspire actionable change. We appreciate your candor and the tips you’ve provided to help others navigate these tough circumstances.
Elfi De Bruyn: Thank you for having me. If sharing my story can help even one parent feel less alone, then it’s worth it.
Keywords: financial difficulties, single mother support, Mothers for Mothers, budgeting tips, financial stability, community resources, holiday stress management