Advice?

One of my best friends got married a few weeks ago, prior to that a shower was arranged however the bride made it clear she didn't want one. So one of the bridal party members and the MIL started arranging a get together for everyone (men, women etc) food, cupcakes prize baskets and a handmade gift for the bride & groom AS well as a giftcard from each person for the bride and groom. Myself and the MOH were unable to attend (we'd just had a weekend getaway for the bachelorette and the location of this get together is a good 1.5 hours away from us, so we opted to miss out.) Fast forward to yesterday am the bridesmaid (who is also the sister in law) that arranged the get together sent us a text asking for our financial contribution to the shower. This is absolutely insane to me. Out of love for the bride I'll send my amount but I honestly can't wrap my head around asking people for money, this was never discussed before that we would be splitting the costs. The shower cost $500 apparently and we all need to contribute $80. I know it's not a large sum to some but it is to me. Has anyone else ever had to do this? Is this normal? I'm in Ontario, Canada if that helps any.