Lauren Entwistle, who also has two children, has experienced such financial pressure herself.
Struggling with postpartum depression and managing her finances, she turned to the Atlas Women’s Center in Lisburn for support.
She said she was part of a network of women’s centers across Northern Ireland. The Atlas Women’s Center helped her get her life back together.
She now works there helping other women.
According to her, most women who turn to the center for support are experiencing financial difficulties.
“I’ve been through this myself,” she said. “Worrying about it every day affects your mental health.
“It’s the center of everything, so there’s a big mental health problem in this country. There are not enough resources to help everyone.”
“Many mums here will tell you that even if they had an extra five pounds a week, they would be grateful for everything.”
Entwistle says many women carefully count every penny when making purchases.
“It would be good if politicians came and talked to women and understood how hard it is for them.
“Every time these women go to the store, they have to think about their budget, they count the pennies.
“I know myself, there is a constant feeling of guilt, as if we are not doing enough.”
Entwistle urged women who were struggling to seek help from local women’s centers, which can link women to other services.
“All you have to do is walk in the door.
“Some people might not like the thought of going to a food bank, but unfortunately it’s a bit of a shame.”