You work hard—perhaps even at more than one job—but somehow, the bills just keep piling up.

By the time you cover rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, and fuel, there’s hardly anything left. Then come the minimum payments on credit cards, lines of credit, tax debts, and student loans. You try to pay them down, but the interest keeps accumulating, and that sinking feeling never really goes away.

It’s not that you’re irresponsible; you’re doing your best. However, in today’s economy, even the most responsible individuals often find themselves buried in debt—especially here in Windsor, where the cost of living continues to rise while wages struggle to keep pace.

If this sounds like your situation, know that you’re not alone, and there is a real solution—one that doesn’t involve bankruptcy or losing everything you’ve worked hard for.

Why So Many Canadians Are Feeling the Squeeze

Debt can build up unexpectedly. It often starts with small issues, such as an unexpected car repair, taking time off work due to illness, or providing financial assistance to a loved one. Before you know it, you may find yourself relying on credit to make ends meet, leading to a cycle of borrowing from one credit card to pay another

If you find yourself in one or more of the following situations:

• Making only minimum payments each month
• Using one credit source to pay off another
• Avoiding calls because you know they are from a collection agency
• Losing sleep at night due to financial stress

Then it’s time to explore your options. Look for solutions that go beyond temporary fixes and consider long-term strategies to alleviate your financial burden.

What Is a Consumer Proposal and Why It Might Be Right for You

A consumer proposal is a federal debt relief program that is legally binding and administered by a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT). It is not a loan; rather, it is a settlement that reduces your total debt and allows you to repay what you can realistically afford.

Here’s what it means in practical terms:

1. You propose to pay back a portion of your debt, typically over a period of 3 to 5 years.
2. Your creditors are required to stop charging you interest and cease their collection calls.
3. The remaining balance of your debt is forgiven once you complete your payments.
4. You are allowed to keep your assets, such as your home, car, and RRSPs (Registered Retirement Savings Plans).

Unlike bankruptcy, a consumer proposal has less of a negative impact on your credit score, offers more flexibility, and enables you to continue working and living your life without starting over from scratch.

For many Canadians, it serves as the first step toward a life where financial stress no longer dictates every decision.

Let’s Talk About the Emotional Toll of Debt

Financial stress from unmanageable debt goes beyond just money. It impacts your mental health, relationships, work performance, and self-esteem.

Many residents of Windsor feel embarrassed about their debt, but it’s important to understand that debt is not a moral failure. It often occurs when life progresses quicker than your finances can handle.

You deserve to feel secure and have peace of mind without worrying about whether your credit card will be declined tomorrow. A consumer proposal can help you achieve that sense of stability.

Consult with a Local Expert Who Understands Life in Windsor

Andrea Orr is a Licensed Insolvency Trustee based in Windsor. She understands the unique challenges faced by people in our community, such as rising housing costs, job fluctuations, and family obligations.

Andrea offers confidential, non-judgmental advice to help you determine whether a consumer proposal is the right option for you, or if there is another path that may suit you better.

👉 Visit andreaorr.com to schedule your FREE consultation today. There’s no pressure—just clear information about your options, along with someone in your corner who knows the system and can guide you through the process.

Take Control — One Step at a Time

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or defeated by your financial situation, know that help is available. Thousands of people across Ontario have successfully used consumer proposals to:

• Stop harassing phone calls
• Freeze interest charges
• Consolidate their debt into one manageable monthly payment
• Start fresh with a realistic plan

You can do it too!