Hi Becky,

I am also a single mother and I struggle with the same issue.  We have enough money to buy what we need, but we do not always have enough to buy what we want.  When a trip to the movie theatre, museum, or aquarium are out of the question, we head to the library.  I have found that my local library has wonderful programs for children, especially during the summer.  They have scientific demonstrations, magicians, book clubs, knitting, and yoga.  The list really goes on and on.  Doing simple things like this gives me time to save up the money to do something big.  For a cheap treat, we like to visit Rita's WaterIce or the Philly Soft Pretzel store.  You get a lot for your money when you go there.  We have also found a local pizza shop that has jumbo slices of pizza for 99 cents!  It's within walking distance from a friend's house, so walking there with friends make the pizza taste even better.  Check out your local YMCA as well.  They offer free memberships for those who qualify.  They have great programs for kids and adults, plus a they offer a place to swim.  There's a lot out there to do, you just have to do the research.  If I find any more info, I'll let you know.  By the way, what an awesome job.  I wish I knew how to maintain my own car!

Jessica

Hi Anna,

I am also a single mother and I was able to attend my local community college using grants and scholarships.  When it came time to move on to a four-year institution, I was again able to attend using government grants and a small amount in student loans.  Now that I am in graduate school, I must get by solely on student loans, but I have been lucky enough to receive a very expensive education for a relatively small amount of money--compared to what some people must pay.

Your first step is to apply to your local community college.  They have financial adviors who will be able to help you.  In the mean time, try this website: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/.  It is a government website that determines your eligibility for government funding for a higher education.  They make the determination based on your yearly income and monthly expenses.  This information is then sent to the college where you have applied.  Your school will then handle the rest once you have registered for classes.  Just make sure that you list the community college you have applied to when you are filling out the FAFSA.  Good Luck!   

Jessica