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I think that you should call Headquarters, state your case, and set up a repayment plan. If you can't send them $500 in two weeks, send them $50 a month. It is good faith.
You need to take control of your own finances. I agree that you should have your own account. I don't know the details of your financial life. If you are employed and have your own salary, then it will be easier to take control. If you are a stay at home mother or are disabled or ill without your own money, it will be significantly more difficult. If this is the case, I suggest that you sit down with your husband and go over your family finances together. Do it once a week. Sometimes women choose not to be involved in this aspect of the family because it is unpleasant. I think that getting involved can be empowering for you. It might turn out that you are just better at budgeting and paying bills.
Regarding financial problems, you are not white trash. Everyone goes through rough financial times. Most people are one or two paychecks away from disaster. That means that an injury, an illness, or unemployment can push the average person or family into debt. Don't let guilt or embarrassment control your feelings about money.
I also suggest that you read or tune into Suze Orman's book or show. Hearing her made me reconsider my views about money. Maybe it can help you, too. I wish you the best.
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