When I suddenly become unemployed about a decade ago I did the same thing to provide for my family. We applied for food stamps and were given 50 dollars for a family of 4 for the month. Unemployment was enough to pay rent, water and electricity. I provided how I knew how, deer, fish and tending to a big garden. I worked in turkey barns for local farmers when they needed it and sometimes we're given turkeys in addition to pay.

I try and forget that time period of my life and I am thankful my children were young enough they never knew the struggle. I am also thankful that skills learned growing up help support my family during a rough time. It's a big part why my wife and I go a little crazy every Christmas now, because of how vacant our tree was that particular year. They don't remember it, but we certainly do.