A brother lives in the area, but usually is away due to work. Financially, the brethren do not have easy lives either. While this sounds like a lot, prices are high. A loaf of bread, or a liter of milk, costs 3,500 to 4,000 rubles. People who work have higher salaries - when they get paid.
Salaries are behind approximately six months.
They are not all positive, but give some insight into the unique problems and needs of the brethren in this area. Even though some of my impressions were negative, I did have a good time there, and did enjoy the brethren. Salaries are small. Some people haven't received salaries for over a year. They have lost some kind of pride in themselves to make their lives cleaner, brighter.