Nov 25, 2020

Hurtling toward a fiscal cliff

Several programs for unemployment assistance, food aid, eviction bans and paused student loan payments will end before the new year. Plus, how toy drives are navigating COVID-19.

Segments From this episode

COVID-19

As the new year approaches, government relief programs are set to expire

by Justin Ho

Nov 25, 2020

And there's no additional stimulus relief aid is in sight.

A "Cancel Rent" banner hanging in New York. Key programs that helped keep people financially afloat in the pandemic, as well as the CDC's eviction ban, will end.

Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

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Small businesses prepare for the holidays amid the pandemic

by Sean McHenry

Nov 25, 2020

Small business retailers are facing a holiday season like no other. Three owners share how they're preparing for the shopping season.

A worker decorates the Christmas tree at The Grove outdoor shopping center in Los Angeles on, Nov. 5.

Valerie Macon/AFP

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COVID-19

Manufacturers recovering as service industry continues to suffer

by Kimberly Adams

Nov 25, 2020

Orders for big-ticket items are a rare economic bright spot. But many businesses that rely on in-person customers are hurting.

Workers manufacture face shields in New York. Demand is healthy for medical and cleaning supplies.

Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images

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Helium prices stopped soaring when COVID hit

by Erika Beras

Nov 25, 2020

Here's why: Canceled MRIs and that ballon bouquet you didn't buy for that birthday party you didn't throw, in part.

The Snoopy balloon floats down Central Park West during the 2014 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Kena Betancur/AFP via Getty Images

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COVID-19

How toy drives are staying on track during the pandemic

by Kristin Schwab

Nov 25, 2020

With fewer big donations boxes at offices and retail stores, the logistics have become tricky.

Hilary Duff and Toys for Tots Marines kick off last year's campaign at a Disney store in Los Angeles.

Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Disney

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Principal of Detroit technical career center tackles pandemic's challenges to training

by Kai Ryssdal and Alli Fam

Nov 25, 2020

Students might be learning virtually, but they're still learning a skilled trade.

A Randolph welding student before the pandemic. Now a welding student might learn via a virtual demonstration.

Courtesy of Krista McKinney-King

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Music from the episode

Old Graffiti Bibio

Shells Teebs

Much After Feeling Turnover

Cuffed Nick Hakim

It’s Only (feat. Zyra) ODESZA, Zyra

Still Think Chrome Sparks

Make It Easy On Yourself Jerry Butler

1977 Ana Tijoux

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Daisy Palacios Senior Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer

Sean McHenry Associate Producer

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