Making $ense New England explores how the current economic conditions impact the people of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. This episode provides tips and information on: recession-proof remodeling; how to stretch your grocery budget; how to reducing the stress of unemployment; and a new small business lending initiative.

The program is hosted by MPBN’s Jennifer Rooks with each segment tackling the economic impact on the people of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.

This week’s stories

• “Recession-Proof Remodeling”

   

  The best investment you'll ever make is owning your own home. But how about improving that home once you’ve got it, especially when loans are harder to get and the bottom’s dropped out of personal income? In tough economic times, many owners neglect their homes, much less improve them, in order to save money. But well considered remodeling will protect your house, while increasing its value and making it more liveable. We'll visit several homes that illustrate forward-thinking improvement strategies and explore a decision-making approach that ensures a practical, appealing and cost-effective project.

 

• “Free Tax Preparation Sites”

   

  MSNE reminds viewers of the Cooperative Extension free tax preparation sites available to low and moderate income people throughout northern New England. IRS trained tax preparers can save individuals and families from $100 t0 $300.In addition to the free tax preparation, each site educates the taxpayer of the various tax credits that they are eligible for. One of the tax credits - Earned Income Tax Credit - makes the difference for many families by raising them above the poverty line.

 

• “Buying More on Your Grocery Budget”

   

  One thing that we can’t escape is eating – recession or not. Host Jennifer Rooks takes you to the grocery store to learn how to eat well and pay less for food. Travel with Jennifer to hear some of the simple ways to reduce your grocery budget while eating healthfully.

 

• “Reduce the Stress of Unemployment”

   

  Job loss is stressful for both employers and employees. You’ll learn how the state’s WorkForce Rapid Response teams work to minimize the stress of unemployment by working with both employers and employees to ensure all steps are taken to keep businesses functioning well and laid-off workers on the track to new careers.