Glad it worked out -
Opinion: This seems to be a 'one size does not fit all' situation.
I do think many people value what they pay for a lot more than a freebie. So it makes sense to me to charge 'something' for the lessons.
I do think where one lives and the general affluence - or lack of - in a given community also makes a difference.
I would be happy to 'donate' lessons to someone that I considered 'poor' or 'down on her luck' at the time that was enthusiastic about the idea of learning how to sew.
Not so happy to 'donate' lessons to someone that had just purchased a top of the line embroidery/sewing machine and all the equipment/toys and was complaining that she was 'only allowed' to spend $1000 a month on her hobbies and crafts.