Just responding to one part of your post....Ring Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service and enquire about a NILS loan. It is an interest free loan for brand new whitegoods, etc for people exactly in your situation. They will also be able to get you a much better deal on whatever model you are after than you could get as an independent purchaser.

They will work with you to determine a really good (ie. comfortable for you) pay back rate. It may just help you get ahead.