Many Maryland residents who rely on SSDI benefits to cover their costs of living know that in an average month those benefits may not cover even basic needs. So, what happens when families with children are in the middle of the holiday season and only have SSDI income contributing to their budget? Many families rely on outside organizations to assist during these crunch times. A recent story profiles one family that is facing these difficulties in Illinois this season.

One family in McHenry County was not sure how they were going to make a holiday dinner or put presents under the tree for their three children. They, much like many other American families, are experiencing financial hardships that seem even more stressful during the holiday season. Were it not for a local church, this family may not have had a Christmas at all.

According to a news story, the 40-year-old mother receives her income from SSDI. Her husband has been unemployed for two-and-a-half years and his unemployment benefits have run out. This family was one of hundreds of families that came to the church in December to receive a free turkey dinner with all of the fixings and free presents for their children.

The mother has had eight back surgeries over the past six years. She said if it wasn't for the community, she wouldn't know what her family would do about Christmas dinner. Hers is one of many families on SSDI who relied on the charity of community organizations to get them through the holidays.

This is just one of many families on a fixed income that has struggled to get through the holidays. Many families were waiting to be approved to receive SSDI benefits through the season. Those who are struggling to receive suitable SSDI benefits should seek the advice of a knowledgeable advocate, such as a Social Security disability attorney.

Source: Triblocal, "Early holiday handouts aid the less fortunate," Lawerence Synett, Dec. 18, 2011