I am the oldest of 5 kids, whose parents divorced in the early 1970's when I was in Jr. High. My mom was a stay-at-home mom and dad didn't pay child support or any medical bills for years!!!! We very quickly became destitute and received welfare, food stamps and medicaid. Mom also worked 3 part-time jobs to cover the house payment/utilities along with the welfare money. Foodstamps only covered basic necessities. We ate lots of cheap hamburger mixed with soy made into every conceivable concoction. Milk was always powdered. The only treat mom could buy was a no brand, 3 lb bag of vanilla/chocolate sandich cookies that tasted like wax!!!
Since I was the oldest and babysitting, my .50/hour had to go toward whatever I needed. Clothes were all hand-me-downs. We received free lunch at school till my senior year. As soon as I was old enough I had a job working as many hours as I could get. There were no extras and getting my letter sweater and varsity jacket for Christmas was such a thrill (and I think paid for by my grandparents)!!
Even though I knew we didn't have much, I never felt poor - just lots of love. I value every lesson it taught me. We were recipients of Goodfellows for many Christmases, so I've always donated to them and help pack up the goods every year.
__________________  Sissy & Angel |