what about asking people for the basic things you do need, like food or whatever, and then use your money you would have used for that to pay your bill? i mean, if you ask someone to spend $50 at the grocery store, then you can use your $50 for your bill right? Tell them they can even put it in a basket if it makes them feel better.

There are lots of things like this... laundry soap, groceries, clothing, shoes, gift certificates for things like hair cuts.. i don't know what basics you have... but you get the idea.

And.. if it really makes you angry, angry enough to fibb.. then tell them you already have whatever they gave you and ask if they kept the receipt... then return it.