Becoming a parent is scary, yet it is one of life’s most exciting adventures . However, life’s great adventure can become incredibly expensive, especially when you’re a mother of twelve children trying to make ends meet in today’s economy.
Parenting is an unpredictable mix of joys, challenges and responsibilities. For Veronica Merritt, a 39-year-old mother of twelve, this mix is particularly complex because of the financial pressures she faces.
In a world where the cost of living is constantly rising, she struggles daily to support her family.
Mother
Veronica Merritt, known for her candor and honesty, has sparked debate online by sharing her struggle to financially support her children. By sharing her story, she hopes to not only raise awareness of the challenges extended families face, but also find support in her community.
She shares several challenges, including limited financial support from her former partners and an irregular income. For Veronica, finding financial stability is an ongoing struggle, even with the support of government programs.
Creativity
In times of crisis, creativity is often the key to survival. Veronica has used her creativity by sharing simple and affordable meals on TikTok, where she has almost half a million followers.
Although her platform provides her with some level of financial support, it is not enough to make ends meet. Veronica’s $24,000 annual food bill forces her to be inventive. She has learned how to shop smart and prepare meals that are nutritious and affordable for her large family. She has learned how to shop smart and prepare meals that are nutritious and affordable for her large family.
Family
Veronica’s children, ranging in age from 2 to 24, bring joy but also financial challenges. In addition to daily living expenses, Veronica estimates she spends $7,000 on Christmas and $10,000 on birthdays, adding to her financial burden. Despite these challenges, she remains determined to provide her children with a loving and caring home.
Criticism
While some admire Veronica as a “super mom,” she also receives criticism from netizens who view her situation as “self-inflicted.” For Veronica, the support of those who understand her and appreciate her efforts is invaluable.
Subsistence
Veronica’s struggles are a reflection of broader economic trends. The rising cost of living has led to an increase in government assistance and a growing homeless population in the US. This reality underlines the need for action to address economic inequality and support families in financial difficulty.