I'm glad I am not the only one that was taken aback by the $50 minimum. I live in the Pacific Northwest, so was questioning whether it was area specific.
I agreed and was excited to participate, but didn't find out until later that there was a minimum from the coworker arranging it. We all make decent money (like I said, I make about $20,000+ less than all of them but my salary is still very much above the average for household income in our area). I would just rather my money go to my own family.
I work in a small government agency office. If I decline, I would be the only one. The office culture is very homogenous, I'll say that much. It's just a really difficult situation and position to be in.
What would I even buy in the $50-55 price range? And if I buy something for $50, will that be seen as too cheap because someone else spent $100? All around uncomfortable.