How do you handle bills on unemployment? (Sacramento)

My income is now a fraction of what it was as an HR coordinator and I am trying to cover the essentials. I am in Sacramento, in case local advice matters. I am nervous about falling behind. Did lenders work with you?

Check for energy assistance programmes. I got a credit that covered two bills.

I called each lender and asked for a hardship plan. Two agreed to lower payments for a few months.