Not only that, but if you're working a low wage job you likely have to take multiple jobs just to survive, so you a) don't have the money to make many purchases

Not only that, but if you're working a low wage job you likely have to take multiple jobs just to survive, so you a) don't have the money to make many purchases, even at a discount and b) don't have the time to enroll in a degree program and take classes. What people need is enough money or resources to have some savings and breathing room.