Hard times come to everyone. As they say, most of us are only one or two paychecks away from homelessness ourselves:
1. Freecycle is like Craigslist, only everything is free!
2. Computers in the town library are free for patrons. Books and DVD's, too
3. For those without medical coverage, sign up for Apple Care at the usual government site
4. Check with it's legality, but fast food restaurants frequently throw away food at night
5. During fishing season, salmon may be caught on both the Carbon and Puyallup rivers
6. The Orting Food Bank provides assistance during the week, and by appointment
7. Those who are low income may receive food assistance from the State
8. During the summer months there is free entertainment (and often food samples) at the Farmer's Market
9. Some town bars may give free munchies for the price of a soda
10. Surrounding forests offer protection from the elements (check local ordinances) -- remember to always clean up after oneself!
11. Weekend garage sales offer many items for discounted prices (and you can even haggle)
12. Stores that receive lots of shipments often throw out cardboard boxes (sometimes just for the asking). These can be used against the elements.
13. If you hit it off with it's participants, there are more than a dozen couch-surfers in surrounding towns
14. "Happy Hour" food specials at local restaurants
15. There are free movies put on by Park's & Rec in the city center every summer
16. Useful items may be found at used prices at First Love
17. If you have a car or truck laying around during the weekends, rent it out to others
18. Offer yourself as a babysitter or a pet-sitter for others
19. If your handy with your hands, get your contact info listed here
20. If you have produce or crafts items, they can be sold in front of the Post Office -- this is how the town egg man does it!
21. For those crafty folks, there's nothing more useful than Etsy!
22. Towel baths (check with ordinances) can be done at secluded spots on the river. Some restrooms exist in town, also.
23. Knock on a few churches and let them know your needs -- their whole mission in life is to serve
24. Share your story on the "Orting News" -- a very large group of caring folks read this
25. Seniors occupy a special place in the town's heart. Contact the Senior Center.
26. If you belong to the Eagles, they always help each other
27. Homeless students may receive caring help from our school office
28. A hundred things that can be done with those cheap plastic buckets.
29. If you are a teen and you need advice, give Teen Haven a call.
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