Remember bartering? Back in the 'old days' people used to barter their time, talents or items to others. Trading goods and services without exchanging money. If Mary could sew but needed some food for her family, she might offer her services to a nearby farmer. If the famer's family had need of some clothes, they might barter with one another. You get the picture.
But what about today? Is that something that we could still do? In this economy more and more people are opting for just that. There are also many sites out there that help fascilitate such a thing. Craigslist.com (under the heading 'barter') and U-exchange.com are a couple. There are also a few book and media swap sites. SwapTree.com or PaperBackSwap to name a few.
If this is something you are interested in, try doing a local search or ask around. Find out if there are any sites or organizations that participate or encourage bartering. You can get what you need without spending a dime.
