Christmas with a Tight Budget
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year.."
We all know Christmas isn’t about the decorations or presents under the tree. Although we all love to decorated for the holidays, and check off each gift everyone asked for. When you're short on funds and aren’t able to afford anything for Christmas, the holiday spirit isn’t the same. Unexpected bills come up, earnings go down, and the most expensive holiday is here to add more stress. Here are some ways that you can decorate on a tight budget as well as getting some Christmas gifts for your kiddos.
1. Dollar Tree/99 Cent Stores
These two stores are perfect for shopping any occasions. Yes, it’s hell of cheap, but it’s better than not having anything. If you have ever been to one of these stores, you may know you’ll be able to find some brands that you’ll find in your local grocery store. Including, your child's favorite cartoon characters. Did you know that the 99 Cent store sells wine? Who knew?! Grab a book and pick a wine out, tie it with a bow. You have one gift down.
2. Good Will/Facebook Market
These two places are great for browsing used items. Goodwill may sell some ancient Christmas items but give it a good clean, and paint job it’ll be brand new. This store doesn’t sell electronics that don’t work, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing a toaster for your daughter for her new apartment. Looking through Facebook marketplace is another great way to find Christmas gifts or decorations. Of course, you have to make sure to test things out before making the purchase.
3. Signing up for charity
Toys for Tots, Angel Tree, Shop with a Cop, Family Giving Tree, make a Wish etc. These foundations are amazing. They are always taking donations to help a family out. I always try to help a child receive a present for Christmas. If I had the money in the world to make sure every child receive a gift this holiday season, I would.
Two years ago was my first Christmas not having anything. I purchase a little Christmas tree from the Dollar Tree, picked up some red bows and little bells and that was it. We had a rough time towards the end of 2019. We were kicked out of my ex-boyfriends parent's house, and we got into the first apartment. One of our dearest friends who passed away in the beginning of 2020 gave us some money to purchase a Christmas tree. It made me cry so hard. I went to BigLots and purchased a 6ft tree that was only $25. I still have the tree and named him after that wonder man, Bob.
My son’s daycare always help out their families, no matter what season it may be. I was able to sign up my son, and he got a few Christmas presents. To this day I still don’t have many decorations. With this crazy life we live in, and still being that broke ass parent. Family is all I need.