Willing Workers of White Hall Extension Homemakers Club met April 22 at the White Hall Library where Marnette Reed presented a program on “52 Ways to Climate-Proof Your Finances.”
Reed passed out a handout with 52 financial management strategies to implement or habits to develop that individuals and families can use to increase financial resilience and reduce potential financial burdens caused by climate change, disasters and extreme weather events, according to a news release.
The suggestions were in the following categories: Personal finances; insurance; clothing; shoes and laundry; food; housing; tax credits; transportation; and preparedness.
One of the things she stressed was having all your important papers together in a safe place. One suggestion was use a waterproof and fire-resistant safe. Pick one that is light enough to carry but large enough for essential papers and valuables.
After a disaster, contact your insurance agent. She also suggested to have cash on hand in case an emergency occurs. Save smaller bills in a safe place. Following a disaster, banks may be closed and/or power outages could result in no access for credit cards or debit cards.
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Also during the Willing Workers meeting, President Karen Needler welcomed everyone. Tonia Dalby blessed the food and members had a meal provided by Needler and Dalby. Gail Dillard, guest of Needler, also helped with the meal.
Dalby read The Thought of the Month: Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you can’t get more time. Dee Kindrick led members in the Homemaker’s Creed. Reed read the Handy Hint: Credit can be your friend or enemy.
Kay Cromwell read the Inspiration from Proverbs 3:9-10. Secretary Jo Ann Carr called the roll with members answering the question: Do you have a budget? Nine members and two guests, Gail Dillard and Debbie James, Jefferson County Extension Homemakers Council president, were present.
Cromwell reported 15 food items and $10 cash was delivered to White Hall Food Pantry in March and asked that members bring cereal or cookie mix to the May meeting.
Elizabeth Wall told members about locking their credit cards. She said most credit card companies have this feature.
New officers were elected and will be installed in June to take office in July. They are: Sarah Payton, president; Dee Kindrick, vice president; Tonia Dalby, secretary; Marnette Reed, treasurer; and Karen Needler, parliamentarian.
Kindrick announced the Extension Mental Health Walk for May 3 was cancelled. The next club meeting will be May 27 at the White Hall Library.
If you are interested in getting a copy of the handout on finances, contact Mary Ann Kizer at the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service (870) 534-1033. For details on the Jefferson County Extension Homemakers, contact Kizer or any club member.