Surviving Poverty

Surviving Poverty: Volume 1 - Basic Needs and Resource Management is the first in a powerful 9-part guidebook series created to help individuals navigate the day-to-day realities of living in poverty. Written by Nicole Hudgins-an entrepreneur, program strategist, and survivor of generational poverty, foster care, and homelessness-this volume is a practical, compassionate resource rooted in real-life experience. This book focuses on the most urgent and foundational needs: securing food, shelter, health care, hygiene, and managing limited resources wisely. Nicole provides practical steps, low-cost strategies, and empowering insights for people who are trying to survive today while planning for a better tomorrow. Inside, readers will learn how to:Access affordable and nutritious food even in food deserts or with no incomePrevent eviction, find emergency housing, and stabilize their living situationsNavigate free and low-cost healthcare options for both physical and mental wellnessMaintain hygiene and dignity when access to clean water or supplies is limitedCreate a plan to manage what little they have and use resources more strategicallyNicole doesn't write from theory she writes from experience. Having lived through the very challenges she now helps others overcome, her voice is honest, relatable, and full of hope. This guidebook isn't about perfection it's about survival, stability, and small steps that lead to lasting change. 'Surviving Poverty' is more than a book series it's a blueprint for rebuilding. Whether you're unhoused, living paycheck to paycheck, raising children on your own, or just trying to keep the lights on, this volume meets you where you are and gives you the tools to keep going. Upcoming volumes in the series will explore:Income GenerationEducation & Skills DevelopmentSocial Networks & Support SystemsMental & Emotional ResilienceAccess to Information & TechnologyLong-Term Planning & Goal SettingLegal Rights & AdvocacySafety & ProtectionEach book stands alone but together forms a complete survival toolkit designed to help readers rise above systemic barriers, reclaim their power, and build the life they deserve. You may be starting with nothing but you're not starting with no one. Let this book walk beside you.