Maternity Leave in Ontario?

Question

I'm about to become a single mother and am planing to take a full 6 months off form Mat leave then return part time to work after for the remaining 6 months.

I'm really worried that I won't be able to make ends meet and pay my bills. I have about $1300 dollars to cover in bills alone (living in Toronto is NOT cheap!!). The babies father is not involved in anyway... long story but its better this way.

Has anyone out there gone through this situation and made it through with their head above water. Any words of advice would help out immensely.

Thanks

Answer 1

You will make it through. Sign up for any and all coupons that you can. Go on the Huggies, Enfamil, Similac and Nestle websites and sign up for their programs. We have gotten free diapers, coupons, free cans of formula and everything. Sign up for the Welcome Wagon basket, you get a whole bunch of freebies with that too...

For diapers, try out the cheapo ones. I really like the Parents Choice from Walmart, but the Teddy's Choice from Loblaws are really good too... and cheap! Buy as much generic as you can (vaseline, shampoo, zinc cream, wipes, etc.).

Have someone throw a baby shower for you. Shop second hand (check out Value Village and craigslist).

Sign up for your child tax benefit and child care credit right away after you have the baby... it usually takes a couple of months and then you can get it direct deposited.

Email or PM me if you ever need to chat and good luck!

Answer 2

i don't know what is like living in Toronto but i live in fl. and we are raising 3 kids, my sis and her daughter live with us only buying groceries, and my mom she gives me 50.00 or so when she can and my husband works full time and i work as a substitute teacher so i am now done with work until Sept. but its not like i made alot of money anyway. the first thing i do every paycheck is pay bills. nothing comes out of check before bills and i pay them as soon as they come in not when they are due. then put 10.00 away DO NOT TOUCH THAT MONEY until you have saved enough to pay a medical bill or credit card off. whatever you have left is what you use for food etc. some weeks it might be chicken and potatoes some weeks it'll be hot dogs and mac-n-cheese for breakfast lunch and dinner. if you are smart with your money you can make it!! I wish you all the luck and joy with your new baby!!:o)