Economic Disruption & Supply Shortages

Build a buffer, a little at a time

• Emergency fund: even a small cushion helps. Automate a small weekly transfer, if you can.
• Keep some cash at home in small bills for times when card systems are down.
• Know your essentials: list your must-pay bills (housing, utilities, medicine, transportation) and what you could pause.
• Refill prescriptions on time and ask your doctor if a 90-day supply is possible.
• Skills are savings: basic repairs, cooking from scratch, gardening suited to the desert (cool-season gardens do well here), and bike maintenance.

A sensible pantry (no hoarding)

Build up gradually by buying one or two extra items each shopping trip. Stock what your household actually eats, and rotate it: oldest first.

• Shelf-stable proteins: canned beans, tuna, chicken, peanut butter.
• Grains: rice, oats, pasta, tortillas (freeze extras).
• Canned fruits and vegetables, shelf-stable milk.
• Water: at least 1 gallon per person per day, more in summer.
• Baby formula, pet food, hygiene and menstrual supplies.
• Storage tip: Phoenix garages get extremely hot. Store food and water indoors in the coolest place you can.

Protect your housing & utilities

• Call your utility before you fall behind. Ask about payment arrangements and assistance programs. In summer, staying cool is a safety issue.
• Talk to your landlord or lender early. Many will agree to a plan if you reach out first.
• Dial 211 for rent, utility, and food assistance referrals across Arizona.

During supply shortages

• Don't panic-buy. It creates the shortages it fears and leaves vulnerable neighbors without essentials.
• Prioritize water, medicine, baby and medical supplies, then food.
• Share and swap within your neighborhood: tools, rides, childcare, bulk purchases.
• Keep fuel use efficient: combine trips, carpool, and keep the tank half full in summer.

Where to get help

Avoid scams

Hard times bring scammers. Be cautious of anyone demanding payment by gift card, wire, or crypto; "government" calls threatening arrest; fake relief or debt-forgiveness offers; and price-gouging sellers. Report fraud to the Arizona Attorney General or the FTC.