Many years ago, I worked for min. wage. I sold carpet cleaning services via the phone. Every time I made a sale, I rang a bell. My co-workers and I would clap for whomever rang the bell.

I couldn't buy much, shopped at the Goodwill, bought dry beans by the bag and day old bread, and paid cheap rent in the least desirable area of town.

Good thing is I maintained a checking account at my local credit union. Only $5.oo to open an account.