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Asked 2/20/2012

Child Support...Need Advice

I have a 10 year old severely autistic son and I'm a single mother. In the last year he has had some behavioral problems that became dangerous. He is much stronger than me and got out of control. He was placed in a special facility to meet his needs. The state (Kentucky) has temporary custody. They are attempting to stabilize him and he is returning to my home at a later date if he improves; he was not taken and there are no abuse or neglect charges.

Since my son was born I have not worked. Yes he did get SSI and I received child support.
Now that my son is placed in a special facilty on Feb 3 this year I will no longer be receiving the SSI and child support.
The last 2 weeks I've been actively seeking a job, applying at restaurants, hotels and nursing homes. No one has called me for an interview.
I was served with papers stating the state has filed a petition against me for child support.
I'd be more than happy and willing to pay support for my son and I will continue looking for a job. But what will happen if I can't find a job? Is there someone--an agency that might help me find work?
Please don't get me wrong..I'm no "deadbeat mom". I visit my son regularly at the facility and am still involved in his life, I love him very much. And I'm in no way lazy, I just can't seem to find a job.
Please--no judgemental comments, I just need some advice. Thank you.

 
 
 
 
 
Answers

Answer 1/4 - Submitted 2/20/2012

Has the child support from the father as well as the SSI been transferred to the facility? Are they asking for more in addition to this? If so I'd request how they came to whatever amount it was that they are charging you for support. With a disabled child there should be some sort of resources out there that can help you.

From what it sounds like, you've been a stay at home mom not really by choice but out of need to care for your special needs child. Finding a job after years in that situation can make it extermely difficult as you've not been out in the workforce and don't have recent skills. One can hardly fault you for this.

As far as seeking employment, I've noticed that people have the greatest success via their states unemployment offices. You don't have to recieve unemplyment services to utilize the opportunities they offer. In fact, most unemployment offices have job seeker boards on their websites and you can sift through the many job openings that companies post with them. They offer a wide range of job opporunities from jobs requiring little or no skills to higher paying jobs. It's not tedious at all either as you can set a search range for the type of job you are qualified for etc. To start, type into your search engine your states department of workforce services. It should guide you from there.

Another way I've seen people gain employment quickly is to network. They let everyone they know and meet that they are actively seeking employment. Eventually you may speak with the right person who is hiring or knows someone who is hiring and because your name came up as a recommendation you have a higher chance at gainful employment. Post yourself on professional networking websites such as linkedin.com as well. Search their sites for employment as well as network with people you know that are members.

Even though the economy has taken a turn for the better it can still be very diffficult to get a job. Keep your positive attitude and your strength, it will help.

i sincerely wish you the best of luck. I can't imagine all that you've endured up to this point. I hope things only get better.

 
 

Answer 2/4 - Submitted 2/20/2012

Thank you Jenner for your advice, it was well thought and written.
You are correct, I was a stay at home mom not by choice but because of need and my son's disability. And for the last 2 years it's been even more difficult since I became a single mother.
Yes both the SSI and child support has been transferred to my son's facility. I'll contact a lawyer concerning this. Again, I'm very willing to pay but have no income right now. I'm not looking for a way out, I'm just looking for help finding a job so I can give my son the support he deserves. I'll contact my local unemploymrnt office for help.
Once again..thank you.

 
 

Answer 3/4 - Submitted 2/22/2012

I think contacting an attorney is a great step. They would likely have the ability and connections to put you in contact with some agencies that can help financailly support your child until you are back on your feet.

I admire the fact that you took the opportunity to stay home with your son. I'm sure it wasn't easy all the time but it was in the best interest of your child as there is no replacement for a good mother in nurturing a child. I'm sure it wasn't and easy decision in placing your child in a facility, something a mother should never have to do, however, under the circumstances it sounds like you've made the very best decisions with your sons interest at heart and that is admirable.

You've endured quite alot emotionally. Don't forget to give yourself credit for all you've gone through and remind yourself that you've done your very best. Carry with you the strength you've gained as it is a great quality and one that cannot be taught. Hopefully things will only get better.

 
 

Answer 4/4 - Submitted 2/25/2012

Thank you Jenner for both your answers, you are a kind, compassionate and understanding person. God bless.

 
 
 
 
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