When I was "fiscally disadvantaged" I learned "skills" salvaging bike bits discarded by others. They have stayed with me, and serve me well when getting an old crock on the road when there are no parts to be had.
When I was "fiscally disadvantaged" I used Vaseline in bike wheel bearings because I couldn't afford grease. But I grew up poor, there were no bike wheels. So I understand the distinction Phil was making. (not that I'm sure it was germane to the topic.)
Mark Stonich
Minneapolis Minnesota
http://bikesmithdesign.com
http://mnhpva.org