Trying being eligible for it and not getting Social assistance. Because my husband a university student had cosigned on a $10,000 saving certificate (it was his grandmother's - she just wanted to ensure he inherited the money) he and I and our infant son were not eligible for any welfare, not even food stamps. And though he was still under 21 and in university he could not have any of the death benefit when his father died, because he was married and not considered dependent.

Neither of us had wealthy parents, but we made do. Juice and milk was for the baby. Koolaid for us. We would share a Pepsi on a Saturday night as a treat. I made soft toys and even little alphabet, number and colour and shape books for our baby out of old clothes from my mom and siblings.

I didn't really feel poor until we had major expenses like dead car or fridge. And then again about 5 years ago when my daughter fell ill. We couldn't afford to by insurance for her and even if we could, it would not have been enough to save her. That is where the economic dividing lines are really drawn. Insurance and health care (even cosmetic care) are in place for the wealthy and healthy.

Marx was right.

From each according to his ability, to each according to his need .