Arizona's economic and budget woes have affected state and university employees with layoffs and furloughs. As a result, there are more unemployed teachers and state workers, and some are looking online to help make it through a dark financial time.

HelpingAZ.com, launched by Arizona State Credit Union, is designed to compile job-search information and money-saving tips, especially for people affected by government spending cuts, but the site is available for anyone to use.

Many people who are facing unemployment now have never been in that position before, said Paul Stull, a spokesman for Arizona State Credit Union. The site allows them to ask questions and access help that is available.

"You can't get somebody their job back, but you can help them get through it," Stull said.

The "Sound Off" section allows people to voice frustrations and opinions about recent economic developments. Many people include news links or commentary on the state budget crisis, layoffs and the federal stimulus.

The "Information Exchange" section is a listing of money-saving tips and helpful Web sites and programs. It includes suggestions to save money on food and by cancelling non-essentials such as cable TV or Internet service.

The "Need a Job?" section lists job-search Web sites, and the "Helpful Resources" section links readers to government-assistance programs and local food banks.

"Even if only a handful of people get help, it's help they didn't have before," Stull said.

On the Web at: http://helpingaz.com/