In the aftermath of the 2008 economic meltdown, many families are still seeking help and advice on how to combat financial problems.

The University of Illinois’ Extension program has recently released multiple resources to help University families and Illinois citizens alike.

The University’s Extension office has launched a new Web site titled “Getting Through Tough Financial Times,” which aims to help families survive the financial situation and save money for the future.

Various articles exist on the Web site, including sections on Helping Families Cope, Taking Control of Spending and Managing Your Finances.

The Web site is organized into various side tabs, which expand to include more information and other web resources affiliated with the Web site.

Located at www.toughtimes.illinois.edu, the Web site features more than 100 tips and multiple articles for the general public to reference throughout this year as well as years to come.

Karen Chan, an Extension educator at the Countryside Center, said work began on the site in October in an effort to provide an insight on what was going on in the economy.

Lois Smith, an Edwardsville, Ill., Extension educator and one of the leaders of the project, said the aim of the Web site was to find ways to help families by refurbishing older articles and adding information relevant to today’s world.

“It comes about from a variety of directions,” Smith said. “We looked at what we had available and said what assessments we needed to make. It was going to be for the public.”

The site can also serve as a portal that people could go to, and it will encompass students and the general population alike, said Susan Taylor, a Matteson, Ill., Extension educator.

“A lot of blood, sweat and tears went into this,” Taylor said. “It’s a work in progress, but it’s for people who don’t know where to turn when they getting into financial problems.”

Taylor said there are other programs that will further include students, including a financial wellness program at the Activities and Recreation Center for students to talk to representatives about their financial status.

The new Web site has been coupled with other events, including seminars, said Kathy Sweedler, a Champaign Extension educator.

“It’s a statewide effort, way beyond just our community,” Sweedler said.

Sweedler said multiple efforts to get the word out have been implemented, including weekly news releases and bookmarks to be handed out via cooperating businesses.

“We also have tip sheets and workshops, and agencies and organizations are spreading the information,” Smith said. “So far, it’s working.”