Ways to Cope During Times of Financial Difficulty

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A health emergency, the loss of a job, or unexpected large expenses can happen to anyone. Even for the most financially prepared folks, such an instance can make things especially challenging. If you are currently facing a financial hardship or difficult time in your life, there are various organizations you can turn to for assistance to help bridge the gap.

1. Food Assistance

Food pantries collect and distribute necessary food items in designated areas. Common items you might find at a food pantry are canned fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources like canned tuna or chicken, and dry grains such as pasta, cereal, and rice. Food pantries may have different eligibility criteria for receiving food – sometimes depending on your income, family size, or if you are experiencing financial hardship.

Soup kitchens are centers that distribute little to no-cost nutritious meals to those experiencing food insecurity. Like food pantries, soup kitchens may also have different eligibility criteria for receiving a meal.

If you are in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and experiencing food insecurity, check to see if Fulfill can help. From a network of food pantries and soup kitchens to assistance determining eligibility for benefits – Fulfill takes a comprehensive approach to food security. Another resource is JBJ Soul Kitchen, a local soup kitchen serving nutritious, warm 3-course meals with various payment options depending on your needs. The State of New Jersey also has a Food Assistance webpage to help connect residents in need to local and state resources.

2. Utilities Resources

Essential utilities such as electricity and water, do not pause when a hardship arises. Your utility provider may be able to assist if you are facing financial hardship. Contact your service provider(s) to see what the options might be. They may be able to offer payment plans, due date extensions, or budget-billing plans if your hardship might be long-term.

Furthermore, if you are a New Jersey resident and need help in paying for utility bills, are in danger of utility shut-off or are currently disconnected – the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has various utility grant programs you can apply for.

3. Clothing and Household Items

Community closets may provide clothing and household items to individuals and families in need. Typically, donations of gently used items are accepted and offered to the public at low or no-cost. If you are local to Monmouth or Ocean Counties, Clara’s Closet by Lunch Break is a community closet offering select items free of charge to eligible guests.

Second-hand shopping at thrift stores can also be a great resource to purchase gently used clothing and household items at a low cost. A large thrift store chain that accepts donations to sell to cost-conscious shoppers is Goodwill. You can locate a Goodwill near you here.

4. Housing & Shelters

It can be comforting to know that housing resources and shelters exist nearby should you ever need them. There are usually different rules and eligibility requirements that must be met, so it is always best to consult with personnel at the organization local to you for more information.

Some housing resources include:

  • Emergency housing facilities: Provides a short-term, clean, and safe place for families or individuals to stay who have an immediate need.
  • Transitional housing programs: A resource designed to transition those who are unhoused to more permanent living solutions.
  • Support services: Certain non-profits and local or state organizations may be able to assist with housing applications. Visit your state website to learn more. For NJ residents, visit this website.

If you are located in Monmouth or Ocean, we’ve developed a list of several community-based resources by county. These organizations may be able to assist you in times of need. This is not a comprehensive list of all the local resources that may be available to you. However, it is important to know that there are various charities and organizations within the community that will be in your corner should you ever need them.

For assistance related to your First Financial accounts or if a financial hardship has arisen and you would like to discuss your monthly loan payments, visit the need help page of our website. If you have a question about loan options or membership eligibility, contact us today.

First Financial Federal Credit Union is not affiliated with any of the organizations named within this article. This list is meant to be a general resource of community organizations and assistance programs that may provide services to those located in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in New Jersey. Please check each organization’s website for the most up to date information on their services.

Don’t Let Thanksgiving Leftovers Go to Waste

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After all that prep of your big Turkey Day meal, one of the best things you can do is make sure nothing goes to waste. With a little creativity, you can stretch your Thanksgiving bounty into great meals, reduce your grocery bill, and even give back to your community this holiday season. Here are some smart leftover strategies – and three easy recipes to keep things tasty, simple, and budget-friendly.

Why it matters

  • Food waste adds up. When we let leftovers go unused or toss items we bought, we also waste the money and time that went into them.
  • Stretching your leftovers means you buy less at your next grocery run – helping you save, which aligns with smart budgeting and good financial habits.
  • You can also turn leftovers into an opportunity to give back – many food pantries and charities accept unopened, unexpired non-perishable items so others don’t go hungry.
  • Budget-friendly meal planning is a winner all around. You can use affordable food dishes to feed a crowd or repurpose your leftovers.

Easy recipes using common Thanksgiving leftovers

Here are three simple ideas you can use in the days following Thanksgiving. Each uses typical leftovers like turkey, stuffing, vegetables, even mashed potatoes – and gives them new life.

1. Turkey and stuffing skillet hash

  • Chop leftover turkey and stuffing into bite-sized pieces.
  • Sauté both in a skillet with a little oil or butter, add in any leftover vegetables (e.g., roasted carrots or green beans) and a handful of shredded cheese if you have it.
  • Crack an egg or two on top and cover until the egg sets.
  • This gives you a hearty breakfast or brunch that uses what you already have (turkey + stuffing) and eliminates the need to buy separate hash browns or breakfast sausage.
  • Tip: If you have extra gravy, drizzle a little over the top. If you don’t use all the stuffing, you can even freeze portions in single-serve containers for later.
  • Recipe inspired by James Beard’s Turkey-and-Stuffing Hash

2. Turkey and vegetable soup with mashed potato dumplings

  • You can use the turkey carcass to make a simple bone broth (or heat up some leftover turkey stock).
  • Add chopped leftover turkey, diced carrots/green beans/leftover roasted vegetables, a cup of leftover stuffing broken into small pieces, and warm through.
  • For a twist: Mix a small scoop of leftover mashed potatoes with an egg and flour (or bread crumbs) to form little dumplings or “gnocchi-style” bites. Drop them into the simmering soup until cooked.
  • This transforms leftovers into a comforting meal and you’ll be less likely to go buy expensive take-out.
  • Recipe inspired by the “Spend with Pennies” Blog

3. Leftover cranberry turkey wrap or sandwich

  • Use leftover slices of turkey and a smear of cranberry sauce and stuffing inside a tortilla, large lettuce leaf, or whole-grain wrap.
  • You can also add shredded lettuce or leftover roasted vegetables from the holiday table.
  • Roll up your wrap and lunch is done. Easy, portable, and uses up more in the fridge!
  • If you have leftover sweet potatoes or roasted root veggies, you can add them in too.
  • Bonus: If you already picked up a multi-pack of wraps or a loaf of bread, you’re getting more value out of what you bought.
  • Recipe inspired by the Kitchen Concoctions Blog

Smart tips for leftover management and your budget

  • Label and date your leftovers: Put the date on your containers so you use the oldest items first.
  • Portion and freeze: If you think you won’t use everything within a few days, freeze portions and mark them for post-holiday meal nights.
  • Plan your next grocery list around what you already have: Before buying new items, take stock of leftover turkey, stuffing, and vegetables. Build 1-2 meals around what’s in your fridge.
  • Donate what you won’t use: If you have unopened non-perishables find a local food pantry and drop them off. This helps your community and frees up space for items you will use.
  • Use leftovers to reduce your next shopping bill: If you plan ahead a little, you may be able to skip a meal out or purchase fewer items at the store because you’re “recycling” ingredients. This small savings can really add up.
  • Think of repurposing as part of your holiday budget: Just like you planned for the turkey and sides, plan for what happens after. This mindset helps you treat leftovers not just as an after-thought, but as part of the full financial plan for your holiday budget.

Tying it all to affordability and financial wellness

At First Financial, we believe that good money habits aren’t just about how much you make, but how you can use what you already have and also avoid unnecessary waste. The holidays can put extra pressure on your budget – more food, more guests, more chances to overbuy. But by being deliberate and resourceful, you can hold that budget steady. When you repurpose your leftovers, you’re effectively getting more meals from the same budget. That’s smart financial sense and it aligns with our commitment to help you achieve financial stability, even when the calendar says “holiday.”

When we make mindful choices, from leftovers to long-term planning – we can only reap the benefits. Get in touch with us if you have budgeting or financial planning questions, and subscribe to our First Scoop Blog to explore resources that will support your financial wellness year-round.

Balancing Life in the Sandwich Generation

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Are you a middle-aged adult juggling raising children and providing care for an aging parent? If so, you’re not alone. Welcome to the “sandwich generation,” a growing group of people supporting both their children and elderly parents at the same time.

While caring for others can be rewarding, the day-to-day demands of supporting multiple generations can take a financial, emotional, and physical toll on sandwiched caregivers. But with some planning and support, you may be able to achieve a workable balance.

Communicate and set boundaries

Start by opening the lines of communication with both your kids and your parents in order to set expectations and limitations. If you have younger children, you may need to explain to them why you need to divide your time and attention between them and your parents. To help them feel included, look for ways to involve them in less difficult caregiving activities, such as visiting with their grandparents or helping out with household chores. You’ll also want to try to build time into your schedule to do some of the activities that they enjoy.

When talking to your parents, having an upfront and honest discussion about their day-to-day support needs and your ability to meet them – can prevent misunderstandings down the road. When the time comes, you may need to discuss more sensitive topics such as the possibility of having them move to an assisted-living facility, a nursing home, or dedicated space in your home.

If you have siblings or other family members willing to help, set up regular family meetings to discuss how you can all share in the financial, emotional, and time commitments of caregiving.

Leverage community resources

It’s important to realize that you don’t have to carry the burden of caregiving alone. Contact your local senior center – which can provide information on meal delivery services, transportation assistance, adult day programs, and even respite care.

If your parents’ needs are great enough, you might consider hiring a geriatric care manager who can develop a personalized care plan for them. They can also make recommendations for and help coordinate services, housing, and support.

If you need childcare, explore local resources and referral agencies to help you find licensed childcare providers. Contact your children’s school and/or local parks and recreation departments regarding sports leagues, before and after school programs, and/or summer camps.

Prioritize self-care

Putting your own needs first will allow you to be in a better frame of mind to care for those around you. Try to set aside time to rest and recharge your batteries. Even small daily rituals — a walk, exercise class, or meditation — can provide much needed relief.

Your physical and mental health should also be a priority. Stay on top of your own medical appointments and don’t hesitate to seek out counseling if the demands of caregiving become too great.

Explore flexible or remote work arrangements

Nearly 48 million Americans provide care to an adult family member or friend, and 61% also have jobs.1 Talk to your employer about the possibility of flexible or remote work arrangements. Being transparent with your employer about your caregiving responsibilities can help build understanding and possibly lead to creative work solutions that can help alleviate some of the pressures of working while caregiving.

In addition, research the family medical leave options available to you. While the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides some protections, your state or company may offer additional benefits.

Stay on track with your finances

When you are busy taking care of others, it is easy to fall behind financially. In addition to being responsible for your children’s financial needs, you may also find yourself shouldering some of your parents’ financial responsibilities. Nevertheless, it’s important to stay on track with your own finances. This includes sticking to your budget, paying off debt, maintaining an emergency fund, and continuing to invest toward your retirement.

Questions about this topic or need help planning your financial future? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534. You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional. LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial. Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

1) AARP and S&P Global, May 2024

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

Don’t Fall Victim to Task Scams

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In today’s digital world, scams are constantly evolving and one of the newest schemes gaining traction online is known as a “task scam.” These scams often appear innocent at first, offering quick and easy ways to make money from your phone or laptop. But behind the promise of fast cash, lies a setup designed to steal your personal information or your hard-earned money.

At First Financial, your financial security is our top priority. Here’s what you need to know about how task scams work and how to protect yourself.

What is a Task Scam?

A task scam occurs when someone contacts you, often through social media platforms, messaging apps, or online job boards – offering to pay you for completing simple online “tasks.” These might include:

  • Liking or following social media pages.
  • Writing fake product reviews.
  • Rating services or apps you never actually used.
  • Boosting a company’s “online reputation.”

Scammers usually start by sending you a small payment to gain your trust. Once you’re convinced the opportunity is legitimate, they may ask you to “unlock higher commissions” by paying a small fee or completing more tasks that require personal information or banking details.

Unfortunately, once you send the payment or share sensitive information – the scammer will disappear and your money (and sometimes sensitive data) may be gone.

For more details on how these scams work, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently published an alert on How to Spot and Avoid Task Scams. It’s a great resource for learning how scammers operate and what red flags to watch out for.

Common Red Flags of a Task Scam

Be cautious if you notice any of these warning signs:

  1. You’re contacted out of the blue by someone offering easy money for simple online work.
  2. You’re asked to pay a fee or make a deposit before receiving more tasks or a larger payout.
  3. The company has no verified website or contact information.
  4. Payments come through gift cards, crypto, or unfamiliar apps.
  5. You’re asked to share banking or personal details to receive payment.

If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Research the company or contact. Look up names, email addresses, and websites before engaging.
  • Never pay to get paid. Legitimate employers will never ask you to send money to start earning.
  • Avoid sharing personal information. Do not provide bank account or credit card details.
  • Be cautious on social media. Scammers often use fake profiles and impersonate real companies.
  • Report suspicious activity. If you think you’ve been targeted, contact your financial institution right away. You can also report scams directly to the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.

What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

If you believe you’ve sent money or information to a scammer:

  1. Contact your financial institution immediately. Your bank or credit union can help secure your accounts and prevent further loss.
  2. Change your passwords. Protect your email, banking, and social media accounts.
  3. Report the scam. Notify the FTC and your local authorities.

Taking quick action can minimize damage and protect others from becoming victims.

We’re Here to Help

Your online safety matters. We’re committed to helping our members protect their finances. If you ever receive a suspicious message or request involving one of your First Financial accounts, please contact us. Our team can help you verify legitimate communications, secure your accounts, and guide you through reporting fraud safely.

Stay up to date on the latest in scams by subscribing to our First Scoop Blog, and following along with our Important Alerts and Scams articles.

How to Use Your Credit Card Responsibly as the Holiday Season Approaches

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The holiday season is just about upon us, as decorations go up, shopping lists grow, and with travel, gifts, dining out and year-end fun – your credit card usage may begin to spike. At First Financial, we want to help you make the most of having a credit card without letting it become a source of stress or debt. With a few smart habits, you can enjoy the convenience and rewards of a credit card and protect your financial health this upcoming holiday season.

1. Pay Your Balance in Full and On Time

When you carry a balance month to month, interest creeps in – and that can turn a festive purchase into a long-term burden. Experts recommend paying the full statement balance whenever possible (or at least more than the minimum) to avoid interest charges. Setting up automatic payments will help ensure you never miss a due date and get charged a late fee, which is one of the largest factors in your credit profile.

Holiday tip: Before you swipe or tap for that festive party or outing, ask: “Will I be able to pay this off when the bill arrives?” If yes, go ahead. If not, consider adjusting your plan.

2. Keep Credit Utilization Under 30%

Credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you’re using and it’s one of the key drivers of your credit score. Experts suggest keeping it under 30%.

Holiday tip: If you have one card with a $5,000 limit, aim to keep the balance below $1,500. If you plan on heavy seasonal spending (gifts, travel), consider spreading purchases across multiple cards or paying down running balances before the statement posts.

3. Understand Your Card’s Terms and Fees

Before you rush into holiday spending, take a moment to review your card’s terms, interest rate, penalty fees, foreign transaction fees (if traveling), cash advance fees, and any annual fees or promotional offers. You want to avoid surprises. For example, some cards may charge more if you miss a payment and trigger a higher penalty rate.

Holiday tip: If you’re traveling during the holidays or giving gifts internationally, make sure your card doesn’t charge extra fees for foreign transactions.

4. Automate Payments and Use Alerts

One of the simplest ways to stay on top of your card: Turn on alerts for due dates, when you approach your credit limit, or when a charge posts. These alerts can help you avoid missed payments and the resulting fees.

Holiday tip: Since your schedule may be hectic with shopping, travel, and events, automation and alerts can help ensure that you won’t forget a payment in the rush of the season.

5. Use Rewards Responsibly

Rewards cards are a great perk, they can make your regular spending work for you. But they truly pay off when you’re paying off your balance regularly. Otherwise, the interest you pay may outweigh the reward value.

Holiday tip: Use your First Financial Cash Plus Credit Card to earn rewards on essentials you’d be buying anyway (groceries, travel, gifts) but avoid charging “just for points,” unless you can pay it off right away.

Don’t have one of our Cash Plus Cards? Apply today.*

6. Don’t Miss Out on Welcome Offers, But Don’t Overspend to Chase Them

Many cards offer attractive sign-up bonuses or introductory offers. These can be worth it, as long as you don’t buy more than you can afford just to qualify. Overspending may cost you more than the bonus is worth.

7. Create a Holiday Spending Plan

Because holiday spending tends to spike, it’s wise to create a mini-budget specifically for the season. Estimate the cost of gifts, travel, meals out, décor, shipping, etc. Then decide how much you’ll put on your credit card and ensure you can pay it off as quickly as possible. Keeping this in mind helps you avoid accumulating a balance that you’re still paying off after the decorations come down.

8. Choose the Right Card and Talk to Us

We offer credit cards designed with your financial well-being in mind. We provide competitive rates, transparent terms, rewards programs, and flexible payment options.* If you don’t already have a credit card with us, or if you’d like to compare your current card to see if we’re a better fit, now’s a great time to reach out.

Why go with First Financial?

Here at First Financial, we’re not just issuing a credit card – we’re also partnering with you in your financial journey.

The holiday season is a wonderful time for giving, gathering, and making memories, and shouldn’t be marred by financial stress. By sticking to a holiday spending plan, you can enjoy the season and maintain strong credit health.

Let us help you make the most of your credit card this holiday season. Visit your local branch to review your options, set up automated payments and alerts, or simply get advice tailored to your spending plan. Here’s to a happy, financially healthy holiday season!

*APR varies up to 18% for the Visa® Cash Plus Card when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa® Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. Your First Financial Visa® Cash Plus Credit Card will earn cash back based on your eligible purchase transactions. The cash back will be applied to your current credit card balance on a quarterly basis and be shown cumulatively on your billing statement. Unless you are participating in a limited time promotional offer, you will earn 1% cash back based upon eligible purchases each quarter.

How to Save Money at the Vet

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f you’re a pet owner, you know how important it is to keep them happy and healthy – and sometimes, that can be costly. Whether it’s a routine checkup or an emergency that requires treatment, vet bills can quickly drain the savings of even the most-prepared pet owners. However, there are ways to manage both the expected and unexpected expenses that come along with owning a furry friend without sacrificing care. Keep reading to learn five tips on how to potentially save money on vet bills.

1. Keep Up with Routine Exams, Vaccinations, and Preventative Care

Routine exams are an essential part of responsible pet ownership. This is the pet-equivalent of an annual physical exam for us – a comprehensive check-up meant to assess overall health and catch any potential issues. Early identification can help pet owners avoid the often high costs associated with emergency care or the treatment of more severe conditions. Plus, early diagnosis typically comes with better outcomes for your furry friends, too.

Routine vaccinations and parasite preventatives may also be administered at these exams. Certain vaccines are required to be administered every year, while others may be optional – which can help you plan for costs. In the case of parasites, there are many that can affect your pet and cause diseases that are expensive to treat. Vaccines and preventatives are often relatively inexpensive compared to the treatment for the diseases and illnesses they are designed to prevent.

 2. Consider Pet Insurance

Depending on your policy, pet insurance can help you pay for major out-of-pocket expenses in the event your pet is diagnosed with an illness or sustains an injury. With most policies, you are required to pay a monthly premium and any veterinarian expenses up front. After the visit to the vet, you are typically required to submit a claim and are later reimbursed for a percentage of veterinary expenses relating to covered illness or injury. Your pet insurance may have a deductible that must be met before coverage begins, but then pays for covered medical expenses depending on the set rate you select once the deductible is met. For example, if your reimbursement rate is 80% – the insurer will pay 80% of vet expenses, while you pay the remaining 20%. Different types of pet insurance offer different premiums depending on the coverage you need and deductible you select, making it easy to adjust different aspects of the plan to fit your budget.

Pet insurance is not required, but can be a good option for many pet owners. In exchange for paying a low monthly premium, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can more comfortably pay for care that may be otherwise expensive.

 3. Comparison Shop

Don’t be afraid to shop around for veterinarians, as not all charge the same prices for the same services. Prices can vary for numerous reasons, and while it might not make a big difference to the cost of a routine exam – it could make one if your pet needs to undergo complex surgery.

The same goes for prescriptions. You may be able to find the medication your pet needs for a cheaper price at an online pet pharmacy – just be sure to do your due diligence to avoid scam websites. You may also find any specialty diets or preventative treatments your pet needs for less online.

Unfortunately, your pet may one day have an illness or injury that warrants emergency care. You may consider comparison shopping if you are unsure of whether your pet’s situation requires a visit to the emergency clinic, which is typically more expensive since this is typically for after-hours care. Calling emergency clinics, or doing an online vet consultation – can help you determine which type of care is best for your pet.

4. Be Honest with Your Veterinarian

While it might feel awkward to discuss your financial situation, being honest about it with your veterinarian might put them in a better position to help you. For example, if your vet knows you are working with limited funds – they might be able to help you identify the care that is necessary versus optional, or help find the most cost-effective solutions. They may even have a payment plan to help you split up the cost of a visit or treatment into more affordable monthly payments. At the end of the day, you both want the same thing – what’s best for your pet.

5. Consider a Sinking Fund for Pet Expenses

A sinking fund is a way to save money over time for a specific, anticipated expense by regularly saving small amounts. In this case, you’d create a sinking fund for pet expenses – for that routine exam, illnesses your pet might face as it grows older, or both. While a sinking fund won’t necessarily save you money at the vet, it will help you avoid going into debt when these expenses arise. You can also look into one of our Special Savings Accounts for this purpose.*

If you’re looking for more money saving tips like these, subscribe to our First Scoop blog by entering your email address at the top right.

*A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. All personal memberships are part of the Rewards First program and a $5 per month non-participation fee is charged to the base savings account for memberships not meeting the minimum requirements of the program. Click here to view full Rewards First program details. Some restrictions apply, contact the Credit Union for more information.