Americans are turning to pawn shops in an effort to get them through the month, according to the High Spring Herald.

The newspaper reports that more people are buying and pawning in Alachua, Florida, than before in light of the current economic slump.

With summer approaching, more of this activity is expected as people play more and work less.

At least that is the opinion of Chris Mack, manager of Alachua Pawn and Jewelry in the county, which has reported strong business in recent weeks.

"A lot of my customers need $25 or $30 to fill up their [gas] tank or just $5 to buy a pack of cigarettes," he told the newspaper.

Those who do not want to pawn their goods may wish to consider a pay day loan - as this can help people struggling to make ends meet at the end of the month.

Gas in the US went past $4 per gallon earlier this week, which may be having an affect on Americans' spending budgets.

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