I'm starting to exercise. Mostly just walking... but I've been reading how important lifting weights is.

My problem is that I can't afford to join a gym, and I certainly don't have the $$ to buy a home gym setup.

Is there any way to do "strength" exercises without spending a fortune?

I'm pretty sure that Krista has a workout you can do with household items here ... www.stumptuous.com
My daughter does squats with a backpack with books in.

Thank you for that link! I'm on my way to check it out

You can also use exercise bands, an exercise ball, they are both pretty cheap...

Definitely get a ball! You can do all kinds of things on it, and it strengthens your core like you wouldn't believe. As you can afford it, pick up dumbbells and resistance bands. There are lots of sites on the web to give you exercises using these items.

I think getting a good video is great for someone just starting out so that you can check out correct form. Collage vid has a lot og great videos and you can search buy how advance you are. Beachbody also has a lot of great programs that use dumbells or bands like Slim in 6, Power 90 and Project You.