This reminds me of a guy I briefly went out with. First "date" pizza slice, NYC. A million years ago so we are talking a dollar. He couldn't afford a pizza slice (for himself). He claimed he forgot his money. Tall cute NYU athletic scholarship guy, we worked in the same store so I gave him the benefit of the doubt. Second date, cafe - he had no money for tea. I was out. I was poorer than him, paying rent, I don't care if you don't have money but don't be a mooch. It's not about the money, but the complete lack of effort like you say.