Planning for an Economic Depression

[Sassy Granny]

I was born shortly after the end of the Great Depression, so I didn't actually live through it. But my siblings and parents did, and they became extreme stewards as a results. There was no waste at our house while I was growing up, and anyone with more than 2 pairs of shoes was either rich or foolish.

I'm wondering if anyone has a checklist for a Great-great Depression (worse than the 1930s) preparedness? What sort of things ought people be doing today should our country experience a total economic collapse?

[RebMel]

This is a good thread.

I know that we have an order in for half a steer which should come within the next week or two. We live in farm country and when a neighbor of my brother asked if he wanted meat, I told him to order on our behalf.

At least our freezer will be full.

[Tall Timbers]

1) Get completely debt free, that is, completely.
2) Create storage for and store non-perishable foods and necessities.
3) Have some means for protection of self and family.
4) Learn some kind of skill that might be needed and be prepared to use that skill for bartering
5) Pray frequently, study the Word, abide in Him an prepare to serve Him during the difficult times

[Andy]

Ok... here's my personal list. Not complete... its a summary. Oh, and its not what I am saying it's whats best for everyone. Its mine. Just sayin. :)

1. Be spiritually ready. Prepare my head and my heart. Continue to study the Bible and prophecy. Know the word of God. Know the Season and WATCH! He's at the door.

2. Continue to gather supplies to be self sufficient (food and energy) for at least 6 months. This means no food from the grocery stores, no electricity and no heat. This can be broken down in to many more steps.

3. Learn additional trades. Assemble a list of depression era jobs. Learn to Can Food using food that locally grown. (I have a pretty good depression era list of jobs if anyone wants it).

4. Get out of Debt asap.

5. Organize and attend neighborhood block parties and gatherings. Know my neighbors well and discuss current events. Encourage the value of community.

6. Exercise and stay in shape!! Its not only good for the body but gets rid of a lot of stress too!

7. If #2 is close to being done, gather extra supplies to help with the food banks and my church.

Well I know its short but thats been my list for quite awhile. I have expanded on it into detail, but those are the major points. I hope it helps. :wave

[ZeldaCA]

To me, the most important thing is having a roof over our heads and food on the table. We are lucky in that we own two houses, one of which is very small and which we rent out. But if DH got laid off or had his salary cut, we could probably move in there and cut our expenses considerably. It would be hard fitting three teens and two adults into such a small house, but we could do it if necessary. And the best part is, there would be NO mortgage.

Rather than stockpiling food, I'd think in terms of how you would live for several years if employment and money were both scarce.