Are their any loans for a single mom who is unemployed in Las Vegas?

(Gladys from Las Vegas) Are their any loans for a single mom who is unemployed? I live in Las Vegas. Thank you kindly.

Dear Gladys,

I hope this response catches you before you attempt to take out a loan. A loan will not improve your situation, since you lack the income to repay it. Instead, you need to fix the problem. In this case, it is the missing income.

While the usual job boards can help you locate available opportunities, these can be frustrating if you feel that you do not have the specific skills required for many of those jobs. You might need to speak with someone who can help you assess your skills and then match you with either job openings or vocational rehab opportunities.

The Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation could be a good first stop. They can help you draft a resume and search for potential jobs. You can do all of this on-site and get help from trained job coaches that are there to help you gain employment. For more information, call 775-684-3849.

If you need help getting by with household expenses, then you may need to speak with a social worker at the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. Their Division of Welfare and Supportive Services can help you seek out short-term assistance through benefits that do not have to be repaid. Call 775-684-0615 to speak with a case worker.

If you are a homeowner, then you might need to contact the Nevada Hardest Hit Fund. Since you are unemployed, you meet the hardship requirement of the program. Call 702-570-5662 to reach a housing counselor in the Las Vegas office. Tell them that you are working with the other agencies to restore your lost income.

Please take the initiative to get back to work since that is the biggest problem with your budget. I know that it is difficult with high unemployment, but you can find work to pay your bills if you are determined. With these support programs, you can get back on track without putting yourself in the hole with high-interest loans that are near impossible to repay without causing further financial distress.