Been there, done that! Diagnosed Type 1 last year, and I was broke after buying my $150 / worth of meds and supplies each month! Fortunately, I am now in a better insurance situation...
I found a few helpful items:
I got some free test strips from this volunteer organization a while back (if you have a few $$ rattling around looking for a home, they can always use donations.)
Diabetes Angel Network
http://pages.prodigy.net/dfan/angel/
(They are always a little bit behind, so it could take several months depending on donations.)
Lilly Cares Program... apparently, if your Dr. fills out a form, you are eligible for free insulin. I have not tried this one.
http://www.lilly.com/about/community...t/llycare.html
LIfescan (makers of test strips and meters)
I have not tried this one either... I am told that you may be able to call their customer service line and let them know you are low income. They might cut loose with some free strips. 800 227-8862
(Every once in a while they will run a promo with big chain pharmacies and offer a free meter when you buy a big box of strips at regular price.)
There used to be a guy who was giving away free Lifescan meters, but I guess that promo is over. I got one for me and one for a member of my family who also has diabetes.
I would suggest lurking for a while on the newsgroup alt.support.diabetes, also. It's mostly bickering, but there are a few jewels in there.
Hope this stuff helps... now perhaps someone could help me. I'm looking to buy the special cable that hooks up your Lifescan meter to a computer. They are $19.99 at drugstore.com. Anybody found them cheaper? Anybody got a coupon code or free shipping for this item?
James