Jodi, you are absolutely right in encouraging her to think outside the box. When someone is struggling in life, thinking of new possibilities helps . No one is trapped in poverty. There is always a way out. Share a home with someone. Apply for low income housing. Get a better paying job. They are out there. Relocate to a place that is cheaper to live. Become an apartment manager so you can get a free apartment. I know someone who did that and had free rent. This is coming from someone who has struggled too.