My parents couldn't afford for me to go on the various ski trips, etc, at school.
Harsh lesson in life for him. Recession and all that. Maybe he could get a paper round, wash cars or do some gardening. At least enough to let you get an FPGAArcade later this year if you do have to sell it now!
Tip: Never tell anyone how they should parent their kids. Especially if you aren't one yourself.