The Leaky Cauldron

I always got the impression that, despite their financial issues, the Weasleys were too proud for "handouts." Like, despite their frustrations and hand-me-downs and everything that came with it, to them, it didn't matter because they had each other, and they truly cared for each other.

Like, yeah, the Malfoys had money and the newest and best of everything, but until the final book, they didn't seem to have a loving family home or lifestyle. Everything was about status and how they were perceived by the world around them (Lucius having a great job with connections because it made him "important," whereas Mr. Weasley had a job that was looked down upon but was important for both wizards and muggles).

Arthur was a member of the Order, he was a powerful and accomplished wizard, yet was content with his job working with "muggle artifacts" because he had a passion for it, and that was more important than his perceived status in society. I also imagine that they, the Weasleys, didn't want to give Harry the impression they only wanted him around so he'd buy them things, and Harry probably didn't want to be tempted to buy them things so that he could basically make them beholden to them ("I spent 100 gold on this wand for you, you owe me XYZ"). Remember, Harry was almost put in Slytherin, and did have several moments throughout the series where he acted less than honorably towards those around him.

Or I'm just overanalyzing the work of a transphobic conservative bigot. 🤷‍♀️ I haven't reread the books since JKR went all-in on her bullshit, but that's the impression I remember from reading them every summer growing up.