No SNAP? Don't panic!

When my older kids were little, I did not have food stamps. I learned how to basically make something out of almost nothing. Kitchen Witch magic, I call it now. Back then, it was survival. The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer, became my best friend. I would look in my fridge, and pantry and go find a recipe using the ingredients at hand. At the time I had four mouths to feed. My fifth child was a baby, and number six was not born yet.

Homemade pancakes and waffles made in our waffle iron were cheap, tasty breakfasts at our house. Lunch was frequently grilled cheese and tomato soup, and dinner was often spaghetti. A loaf of bread could also be used for french toast, good any time of day.

As my family expanded, and the kids turned into teenagers, I was grateful to have the help of food stamps. I had food stamps until fairly recently, when I found I no longer qualified for them. Earning more money at my was great, but losing the SNAP benefits was not. Grocery prices have soared in the last two years, as we all know. Here are some tips I use:

Only shop at discount stores-I do not go to grocery stores unless they are discounted. Walmart is not always the cheapest. I prefer Aldi, or a local outlet store.

Check Dollar Tree first-I often find soups discounted by $3 or more at Dollar Tree. Single bags of tuna are great on the go, and are only $1.25. Bags of chips, and other snacks are also super cheap. They also have great prices on spices, and baking supplies.

Check farmer's markets for cheap produce-I frequently visit my local farmer's market for produce. A bag of apples or potatoes for $2 can be used in a variety of ways. Make homemade apple sauce or use them for snacking.

Keep eggs on hand- I eat omelettes, fried eggs, scrambled eggs and hard boiled eggs often. Eggs are relatively cheap and are a great source of protein.

Buy a big bag of rice-Rice is cheap, and can be used in almost any dish. I have even made desserts out of rice.

Buy meat on sale-Plan meals around what is on sale at your local store. I like to get pork loin because it is inexpensive and tasty.

Save on coffee-If coffee is available at your work, take advantage of this. Stay away from coffee shops unless you are having a special treat.

Don't buy frozen/prepared foods-I don't buy frozen or prepared food very often. They are more expensive, and besides, I like to cook.

Food Banks-If you qualify, visit food banks. In my county you must have a very low income to use the food bank. If you are able to, food banks are a great resource for individuals and families in need.

Bake your own cakes and muffins-If you have a birthday to plan, buying cake mix and frosting is much cheaper than a cake already made at the store. Muffins are good snacks you can make yourself.

Thanksgiving-Remember thanksgiving is more than food. It's family and gratitude. Consider having an alternative meal since the traditional can be pretty pricey. Also, consider having a pot luck type of dinner where everyone brings a dish.

The government shutdown is causing stress to many right now. I hope that if you are reading this, it will give you a sense of peace. I am praying that soon SNAP benefits, as well as government jobs, will be back in place. In the meantime, I hope these suggestions will help.