From the basketball bleachers to the post office to the grocery store, people are talking about money – how to stretch it, save it or earn more of it. The current recession has many worried about the future – from will our jobs be safe to how to pay for college.
Our Town is seeking ideas to help our readers adjust to the economic downturn and emerge stronger. If you have an idea – whether it’s how to reduce debt, stretch the food budget, make a budget or whatever it may be – send it to us at [email protected]
Here are a few simple ideas we came up with – we are looking forward to what you have to share.
Grocery Shopping
• Before heading to the grocery store, visit its Web site. Both Roth’s Fresh Market – www.roths.com – and Safeway – www.safeway.com – have their weekly ads and coupons online. Both grocery stores also provide ideas for dinners, some $10 or less.
• Plan your weekly menu by what’s on sale at the store. If chicken is on sale, make it the staple for your meals. Sales are a good time to stock up and freeze items, too.
• Look for coupons – the time snipping them from the paper or surfing the web for them helps reduce the grocery bill.
• Make a list before you go shopping and stick to it. Also menu plan.
• If you are a parent, try to avoid taking your children to the store with you. The items they want to add to the cart can quickly add up.
• Be cautious when buying in bulk. Check the expiration date. Sometimes the food spoils before you have a chance to eat it.
• If you need to reduce your food budget, cut out the items with little nuritional value: soda pop, candy and snacks.
• Take time to compare costs – is frozen broccoli less expensive or more expensive than fresh broccoli?
• Shop for fruits and vegetables that are in season and local.
Menu Planning
• Make one. Freeze one. If you are making lasagna or chicken enchiladas, make dish for now and one for later. It will save time and money.
• Plan meals that do double duty. If you are having baked chicken one night, use the leftovers for a casserole or soup the next night.
