Banx i'm in the UK and fully on welfare as i'm a lone parent and like you did not want anyone else caring for my child. I don't know what kind of assistance you will be entitled to (only know the UK system) but i can tell you that when you feel strongly about caring for your own kids you can get by on very little. We eat cheaper foods (not much meat) and don't do expensive activities, but it is so worth it for the joy of seeing DD grow and learn each day. Try not to worry, get as much info as you can and then go for it. It could be that your DP will need to care for your baby at weekends while you work, but really, you can make ANYTHING work if you have to.

Bx