It may take a little time to get on your feet after leaving your abuser. The first few months are the hardest, because that is when you make the most changes. Also, in the beginning, you are very vulnerable emotionally. However, moving on and getting a job will keep you from getting stuck in depression. It will pave the way for a better future for you and your kids.

There are several places you can look for a job. Online, there is monster.com and HotJobs.com, as well as a myriad of other job sites. You can browse your newspaper classifieds, or visit your local employment commission.

If you’ve been out of the work force for a while, you may need a little help with landing the job that you want. There are career counselors to help you learn how to find a job, but they usually charge a fee. Instead, go to the library and pick up some books on careers and job hunting. These books can teach you how to write your resume, how to look for a job, how to interview, and more. What Color is Your Parachute helps you decide what type of job or career you want.

While you are looking for a job, you may be able to obtain assistance. Contact your local social services department to find out what type of assistance you qualify for. You may qualify for food stamps, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (a small amount of money), and help with your heating bill. Churches, such as the Salvation Army, also provide help to low-income families. Sometimes they will pay your rent and utilities for you, and they often provide food and clothing. You can also find free stuff, like home furnishings, at freecycle.org.

If you’re disabled, you can receive Supplemental Security Income. To file, go to the Social Security Administration’s website or visit your local social security office. Typically, all applications are denied the first go-round, and people must appeal the decision, usually with the help of a lawyer. It can take months or even a year in litigation to get social security benefits. During this time, you’re not working and bringing in an income. Most people, while waiting for social security to kick in, live with their families.

You may be entitled to spousal support and child support as well. Read my other article titled After You've Left to learn more about getting support.

Another option is to work from home. There are millions of people doing this now. It’s a great way for you to generate and income while staying home with your kids. One of the most popular work-from-home sites is wahm.com. Visit this folder in the forum for job leads. You can also search for telecommuting jobs on Craigslist. There are many other work-from-home job search sites as well. Just type in “telecommuting” or “work from home” into your search engine.

This should be enough to get you started. I’m going to write a future article about working from home where I explore many options, from getting an actual job to starting your own business.