The Femmes Frugal: food drives

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Frugal Outreach

This post's title may be a little confusing--but it's meant to be. I want to make sure that, firstly, that Kathy and I are reaching out to our readers, because if we're not, then this blog is really just a writing exercise, instead of sharing our experiences in personal finance and greenosity. We're definitely going to be trying to be more aware of our international readers (UK, Australia, and India to name a few), so we'd love to hear from them topics of interest. I've been so motivated to manage my own finances and actions in a more responsible way because of this blog and hopefully the Femmes will be writing for a long time!

Now, to a more personal experience that I wanted to share: how to use your frugal skills to help others. Recently I was made aware of a food drive in my area that was looking for donations for their food pantry. With rising numbers of people living below the poverty line, I thought that this was a very worthy cause. I ended up donating 9 SoyJoy bars (which I got for free at CVS w/2 $3off/5bars) and a can of organic Muir Glen tomato sauce that I got for free at Shoprite w/a printable $1/1. I'd be really interested to hear people's opinions or experiences on food donation. Is quantity more important than quality?

I'd also like to take a moment to promote this wonderful (non-denominational) organization, Angel Food Ministries. All across the United States (almost) they are helping families, regardless of income, to buy groceries at a reduced price. Of course, it is geared towards people who are stuggling financially, so think of it as a temporary safety net during difficult times. Their website is http://www.angelfoodministries.com/ and I recommend that everyone check to see if there is a distribution center in their area.

Finally, sharing the frugal spirit with people who haven't found their inner financer yet is not only fun, but exciting! I have a cousin who is away at school for her first year and I am so happy that after all of my couponing I will be able to send to her this week: a Bic Soliel razor, 3 SoyJoy bars, dental floss, toothpaste, Gold Bond Ultimate Healing body lotion, and other nice treats! I'm also saving on postage by sending it to her via my aunt who is visiting her for Parents Weekend.

Until next time,
Alison

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