I have seen many families in the Christian community live on what appears to be nothing, reaping the rewards of their extended network. It has actually amazed me how people at near poverty levels have had things donate to them, have made birthdays and holidays out of nothing, and have gone on to serve others. If there is anything I have learned watching these folks - mostly home schoolers - it is that God really does provide, and life is about service - not acquisition.
I saw a lot of that in the Christian homeschool community, too. Beans and rice and great joy in life.