Skip to main content

Cyclone Relief: How to Access Emergency Funds for Unforeseen Disasters

WHO provides emergency funds to scale up health response in cyclone-hit Sri Lanka

Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka: A Reminder of the Importance of Emergency Funds and Financial Preparedness

The recent cyclone that hit Sri Lanka has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. As the international community comes together to provide support and relief, it's a timely reminder for us all to assess our own emergency funds and financial preparedness.

The Importance of Emergency Funds

In times of crisis, having an emergency fund can be a lifesaver. It provides a cushion against unexpected expenses, allowing you to focus on recovery rather than worrying about how to make ends meet. But how much should we aim to save? A general rule of thumb is to have enough set aside to cover 3-6 months of living expenses.

WHO's Response and the Need for Emergency Funds

The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided emergency funds to support Sri Lanka's health response in the aftermath of the cyclone. This highlights the importance of having a plan in place for unexpected events, not just for our personal finances but also for supporting others who may be affected.

How TogetherBudget Can Help

TogetherBudget is an excellent tool for helping you achieve your financial goals, including building up an emergency fund. With its powerful budgeting and expense tracking features, you can:

  • Set clear financial goals and track progress towards them

  • Identify areas where you can cut back on unnecessary expenses and allocate more funds to savings

  • Monitor your income and expenses in real-time, ensuring you stay within your means

  • Get personalized recommendations for improving your financial health
Practical Tips for Building an Emergency Fund

While the WHO's emergency funding is a welcome relief for Sri Lanka, we can all take steps to prepare ourselves for unexpected events. Here are some practical tips for building an emergency fund:

  • Start small: Set aside $100 or more each month and increase the amount over time

  • Automate savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings or emergency fund account

  • Explore alternative funding options: Consider contributing to a tax-advantaged retirement account, such as a 401(k) or IRA

  • Prioritize needs over wants: Be ruthless in cutting back on discretionary spending and allocate more funds towards essential expenses
Conclusion

The recent cyclone that hit Sri Lanka serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of emergency funds and financial preparedness. By using tools like TogetherBudget to track our finances, set clear goals, and make informed decisions about our money, we can build resilience against unexpected events and support those in need when they arise.


By Malik Abualzait

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Boost Your Income: 25 Legit Ways to Earn Money from Anywhere

Make Money Online, Offline, and at Home: 25 Ways to Boost Your Earnings Are you looking for ways to increase your income? Whether you're a student, stay-at-home parent, or working professional, there are numerous opportunities to make money online, offline, and from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we'll explore 25 creative ways to boost your earnings and discuss how TogetherBudget can help you achieve your personal finance goals. Online Opportunities 1. Freelancing : Offer your skills on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. 2. Online Tutoring : Use online platforms like TutorMe, Chegg, or Varsity Tutors to monetize your teaching expertise. 3. Surveys and Offers : Sign up with Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or Vindale Research to earn money for taking surveys and completing offers. 4. Affiliate Marketing : Promote products or services and earn a commission for each sale made through your unique referral link. 5. Selling Products Online : Utilize e-commerce pl...

Black Friday Deal: Cut Your Budgeting Costs in Half!

Black Friday Deal Alert: Get Half Off Our Favorite Budgeting App Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Do you struggle to stay on top of your finances? You're not alone. Many of us face financial stress, but with the right tools and mindset, it's possible to take control of our money. That's why we're excited to share a Black Friday deal that can help you achieve financial freedom: get half off our favorite budgeting app! This is a game-changer for anyone looking to manage their finances more effectively. Why Budgeting Matters Budgeting is the foundation of personal finance. It helps you understand where your money is going, prioritize your spending, and make informed decisions about your finances. By creating a budget, you can: Reduce financial stress Increase savings Improve credit score Achieve long-term goals What Makes Our Favorite Budgeting App Stand Out Our recommended budgeting app is more than just a tool - it's a partner in your financial journey. ...

Top 4 Side Hustles of 2025: Can You Still Make Bank in 2026?

The Top 4 Side Hustles of 2025: Will They Still Be Worth It in 2026? As we enter a new year, many of us are looking to supplement our income and achieve financial stability. According to recent reports, certain side hustles paid particularly well in 2025. But with the ever-changing job market and economic landscape, will these gigs still be worth it in 2026? Let's take a closer look. What Were the Top 4 Side Hustles of 2025? Based on industry trends and data analysis, here are the top 4 side hustles that paid best in 2025: Online Tutoring : With the rise of online learning platforms, tutoring has become a lucrative side hustle. Experienced educators can earn up to $50 per hour or more, depending on their subject area and level of expertise. Freelance Writing : As more businesses turn to content marketing, freelance writers are in high demand. Skilled writers can earn between $30-$100 per hour, depending on the type of writing project and client requirements. Ride-Sharing Driving : ...