Couple remains positive despite setbacks from unemployment

by Jim Pinkerton (jmpinkerton@wsbt.com)

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Hazel and Scott Collins have had to make major lifestyle changes since Scott was laid off and Hazel had her hours cut. The couple says the experience has brought them closer together. (WSBT photo)

By Jim Pinkerton

Story Created: May 5, 2009 at 7:39 PM EST

Story Updated: May 12, 2009 at 10:44 PM EST

ELKHART — For many people dealing with unemployment, finding a way to pay the bills is a constant struggle. When all the bills can't be paid, tough choices need to be made.

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The Collins family is dealing not only with the loss of a job, but a world that's become much smaller. Since Scott Collins got laid off from his job at Forest River, the family has moved from a home where they loved to entertain family and friends to one that's only big enough for two.

The change didn't come easy, but the couple knew something had to give when money started getting tight.

"There was just panic, then helplessness. What are we going to do? We stretched things out as far as we could. Then we had to start making tough decisions," Collins said.

They put the family home up for sale and moved into a small rental house they own next door. When Hazel Collins' hours were cut, they made even more changes.

"I have downsized everything, even my groceries," she said.

While adjusting to life on a smaller scale, the couple is learning just how lucky they are.

"There's a silver lining in every cloud. And for us, our children, the ones who are geographically close to us, are supportive and we're leaning on each other," Scott said.

Right after he was laid off, Scott says he hoped to live off savings until a new job came his way. Now, he's not sure that's even an option.

"I don't think waiting it out is going to be the answer. I know we're going to run out of money and opportunity before the situation changes," he said.

The one thing he is sure of: "When things do break, I'm going to be paying down debt quickly and I'm not going to make anymore."

The Collins family has sold off a lot of family possessions to pay the bills. This summer they plan to grow a bigger garden to lower the grocery bills.

Both say this has actually brought them closer together as a couple.

Join us every Thursday at 6 p.m. as we introduce you to another family and show you how they're coping with unemployment. Here on WSBT.com you can read their stories, plus find resources to help you and your family, friends or neighbors.

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