Was (and still) a single parent of a special needs child.  That child is grown, but remains a dependent with mental illness a factor.   I went back to school to get off welfare, to stop receiving food stamps so I could support my family on my own.  After college I became ill, now I have a lot of  medical expenses and can't afford to repay my student loans. I must choose between food, heat or medicines. At times I do without medical care or medications just so I can pay the utilities.  Instead of applying for disability, I work, trying to be a productive member of society. I mostly work with low income elderly for a non profit agency. My yearly earnings place me over the guidlines for many services, but I'm living paycheck to paycheck.  I don't travel, go out to movies or to eat, I don't rent movies etc. I just can't afford these things many people take for granted.  I pay my utilities, insurances, try to buy medications, transportation costs for work and my car payment (a used car)-there is not much left for anything else.  I have searched for grants to help pay off my loans-to no avail.  Does anyone have advice they can offer?