“Serve!” Whether it be in the capital city or rural Jamaica, most of us can relate to making purchases at a corner shop.

However, many people just stop for a cold drink or a

snack but do not understand that for a good portion of our population, going to

the shop is not only a ritual but practically a daily occurrence due to

financial constraints. You make do with what you have in your pocket to keep

you going from one day to the next.

Forget about the luxury of a supermarket with all of

its fancy displays and promotions. Life below the poverty line looks markedly

different. For some it’s just the way of life they know so they work with it.

The list below contains some common items purchased at

corner shops when you are low on cash. Nobody has the time or energy to be

embarrassed because more than likely your neighbours share the same situation

as you do. It is all good in the hood!

1. A squeeze of

toothpaste: Walk with your toothbrush and hold it good.

2. Quarter

bread: You can even get half or a slice, if you prefer.

3. Half stick

of butter: You can get also get margarine, chiffon or anchor, depending on

your coins.

4. Half of a bar soap: And trust me, it cut nice and neat

5. Big gill of

oil: Just walk with your bottle

6. Single

diaper: You just need one to take the child on the road

7.  Single sanitary napkin: Period poverty

is real!

8. Pound of

chicken neck: Where do you think supermarkets got the idea?

9. Half pound

of rice, cornmeal or flour: Buy what you need to cook today’s meal.

10. Big gill of

peas: To go with the half pound of rice.