www.phs.org/centennialcare 3 Budget-friendly grocery visits Have you changed your grocery shopping habits in the face of rising food prices? You might find that it’s not always easy to eat healthy on a limited budget. By making strategic changes to how you approach this household chore, you can stock your fridge and pantry with healthy foods and still save money while doing it. Start by following these five tips. 1. Plan ahead. This first step is perhaps the most important. Take stock of what you have at home so your produce doesn't spoil and your pantry items don't expire before you use them. Look at the upcoming week and think about how much time and energy you'll have to cook. Then plan out menus, and include days for leftovers. 2. Make a shopping list and stick to it. Always have your grocery list on hand, either on paper or on an app. That way you can add items as you go about your day. When you go to the grocery store, only buy what’s on the list. Don’t go to the store when you’re hungry, so it’s easier to avoid pricey impulse items like junk food. 3. Look for sales and coupons. Talk to friends and neighbors about where they shop to scout out the best deals. Then join the free store loyalty programs and stay updated on sales and coupons. Keep in mind that it may be most cost-efficient to stock up on certain items, such as paper products or meat, at different stores. 4. Go meatless. Reducing your meat intake is great for your wallet, your body, and the planet. Start with one dinner a week. Mix in vegetarian recipes to make it fun! 5. Drink more water. Not only does water have zero calories, it helps your body perform at an optimal level. It also costs much less than sugary drinks like soda and juice. Drinking water can help your waistline and your wallet. Sources: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; U.S. Department of Agriculture Native American households who live on Qualifying Tribal Lands may get a discount on internet services through the new Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP is helping Native American households cover the cost of their internet. Native Americans who are eligible for the ACP live on Qualifying Tribal Lands and are enrolled in one of the assistance programs below: ● Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance ● Tribal TANF ● Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations ● Tribal Head Start (income-based) Households that qualify can get: ● Up to a $75 discount per month on internet service and ● A one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a copayment of more than $10 but less than $50) The ACP discount is applied through the internet provider. It is not a check that is sent to households. The ACP is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household. For more about the ACP, please visit the FCC website at www.fcc.gov/acp. Save money on your internet service bill
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzIxMDA=