First of all, my condolences on the loss of your husband.
Between hubby and I, we have 8 children. 3 at home now, but the ones out on their own do tend to need more help than they should. Of the 3 at home, all boys, one is special needs and that requires extra time, materials and money.
I have a coffee can. When I was saving up for a nice backing...I had pieced the quilt entirely of cotton men's and ladie's button up shirts. I paid all the bills and groceries in cash. I always put at least one 1.00 bill and all the coins from each transaction in a coffee can. I still do that. We lived in a two bedroom trailer a long time and now we have upgraded to a 2 bedroom apartment. We now have 2 incomes as I work, but my husband took over 50% pay cut to keep a job close to home, so our income is pretty much the same.
I am so happy so many others were able to post some really great suggestions! My stash is in two large JoAnn's bags and that's all I pretty much have room for. Someday, when we are in a bigger house or when the kids go off to college, I'll be able to store it better and grow it more.
I still buy about 1/4" more than I need of fabric. Slowly, and I mean slowly, I have been able to add to the stash. But one rule is very important when your income doesn't accommodate for fabric and notions. Work on one project at a time. I know it can be hard for many quilter's not to have a bunch going at once. You'll find your dollar will stretch and you'll be able to finish more when you make only 1 at a time.