children playing

After work, I had to DoorDash to pay for our motel room. I brought my toddler with me to avoid childcare costs

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Author: 
Ridley, Jane
Format: 
Article
Publication Date: 
9 Mar 2026
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Excerpt

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I couldn't afford a babysitter

Some of my friends were delivering for DoorDash, and I was attracted to the flexible hours. I realized I could do it after my shift at the restaurant.

Emory went to day care when I was in my regular job, but it was easy for me to take her on DoorDash runs in the afternoon and early evenings.

There's no way I could have taken on another job if I had to pay a babysitter. It would have defeated the purpose.

We'd amuse ourselves in the restaurant or takeout place if there was a long wait, then I'd drive to the destination. I'd take Emory out of her car seat and carry her to the customer's door to drop off the delivery.

DoorDash pays you a flat fee. You end up relying on tips. There's no hard-and-fast rule, and the amount varies widely between customers.

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