> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.smdp.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# CITYWIDE For debtors, there is still hope
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/citywide-for-debtors-there-is-still-hope/
- Published: 2007-09-21T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T02:55:07.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Health, Santa Monica, #archive-import

*Cutting the financial fat*

The screening of “Maxed Out” on Sept. 29 will be followed by a question and answer session with Jennifer Openshaw, a financial commentator who has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Dr. Phil and segments on CNN and CNBC.

Openshaw, who lives on the east coast, provides assistance with consumers to find their way out of debt.

“The bottom line is in most cases, you’ll find that people will work with you,” Openshaw said. “It’s better to pick up the phone and let them know of the situation than to be late repeatedly and completely ruin your credit for a very long time.”

Though debt solutions vary on a case-by-case basis, there are general measures that can be taken: • Pull credit card and bank statements and assess the destination of the five largest expenditures. Cut out large expenditures like car payments for a second automobile,especially if a second car isn’t necessary. The extra money will not only reduce the overall debt, but that money can be used to pay off other debt. • Get rid of unnecessary expenditures like gym memberships and compact discs. • Though it might seem like the only solution at times, debtors should try and avoid filing bankruptcy because the process to file can in itself be costly. • Watch out for quick-fix solutions and promises to fight off collection agencies. There are plenty of scams out there targeting vulnerable people. • For medical expenses — remember that physicians would rather get paid something than nothing at all. Pick up the phone and explain the financial situation. In many cases, doctors will offer a lower rate.

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/55/9f/559f9abc-8372-4a2e-8c2d-27386da4e363/content/images/2026/10/092107-12_01.jpg)

‘Maxed Out’ CHARGE IT: ‘Maxed Out’ takes on world of debt. (Photo: Photo courtesy)

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 21, 2007.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/092107.pdf?ref=smdp.com)