I believe Silky chooks can be kept near a vege garden as the pure ones don't scratch up your garden. Not sure if this is gospel but worth considering if the chooks can help keep bugs off veges.
Some other things to consider are using a bike for transport. One of those bike trailers can be bought 2nd hand and can fit 2 kids and some groceries.
Cleaning products are also a very overrated supermarket item. Soap is quite easy to make if you want to use it.