Free Stuff

Church planters have to make money go along way. One of the things church planters love is "free stuff." Here are some things that you can access (via the web) for free to help you in your church planting endeavor.

Time-management organizer. Create an up-to-the-minute to-do list complete with reminders via instant message or e-mail through http://www.rememberthemilk.com/.

Wi-fi Hot Spots. You can find which restaurants and coffee shops in your community that offer free wireless internet. Get a directory at http://www.wififreespot.com/.

Business cards. VistaPrint is online printing company known for its amazing offer if 250 free business cards. They're good quality too! If you visit http://www.vistaprint.com/ you can order your free cards. You will have to pay $5 in shipping charges.

Spam filter. Un-clog your e-mail with http://www.spamato.net/.

Credit report. Everyone is entitled to one free credit report from each of the three major credit bureau's each year free of charge. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com and follow the directions. Why is this free? It's mandated by law, and this site is sponsored by the three major companies -- Equifax, Transunion, and Experian.

Gently used stuff. One person's junk is another person's treasure at http://www.freecycle.org/. By joining a local Freecycle chapter, you can get used furniture, household appliances and a variety of other items. It's free, just know that those who take are also expected to give. No money is allowed to change hands.

Online (free) checking account. ING is paperless checking account (no checks or checkbook) that pays you 3.4 interest on your balance. You can do everything -- deposit your paycheck, pay bills, send a paper or electronic check, transfer money -- securely online. It is FREE! Check ING out at http://www.ingdirect.com/.

Family calendar. All the information you need in one place. http://www.famudo.com/ is an online calendar, address book, and message board. The site merges each individuals schedule into one calendar, which can be accessed by a personal code from any computer.

I hope these free items might be helpful to you, your family, and church plant. I know personally how tough it is in starting a church. Knowing how to "squeeze" a dollar becomes a skill as you look at every avenue to save "a buck." So, I hope you'll check these things out and that in some way they will save you some money.

Information courtesy of Woman's Day magazine. Volume 71, Issue # 10