Tough situation to be in. But it's great that you're stopping to think about it. I would say why do you have to stop the low paying project? Isn't it possible

Tough situation to be in. But it's great that you're stopping to think about it. I would say why do you have to stop the low paying project? Isn't it possible to cut down on the hours? Also, if you explain why you need to cut down on the hours, i am sure they would understand.(You can say "I need the money", nothing wrong with that) And if not, then they would've answered the question for you. That's what i would do anyway. Good Luck.