For the month of June, I am participating in the Food Stamp Challenge hosted by Katy at The Non-Consumer Advocate. Our challenge is to try to spend less on groceries than what our family would receive if we were to receive food stamps. The average family receives $101 per person. I also have a 3 year old so we would qualify for $44 in WIC, which brings our total budget to $549 for the month. I hope that we will be able to spend less than that as I plan to donate the difference between our budget and what I actually spend to our local food bank.
Smiths – $77.89
This week I did most of my shopping at Smith’s where I was able to combine coupons with sale items. I had $4.05 in manufacturer coupons, $7.39 in store coupons, and saved $47.34 with my rewards card. There were also a couple of items that were reduced for quick sale like the organic corn meal.
I also went to SaveMart and spent $30.17. I bought a 12 lb. turkey (reduced for quick sale), antibiotic and hormone free steaks (reduced for quick sale), organic peaches and nectarines, lactose free ice-cream, and sorbet.
Total for week – $108.06
Total for month – $334.80
Menu Plan – Week of June 21rst
Monday – MidSummer’s Night Feast comprised of leftovers and salad. Fairy cakes for dessert.
Tuesday – Turkey, Rice, Glazed Carrots
Wednesday – Use leftover turkey, rice, and carrots to make Turkey and Rice soup. Serve with salad.
Thursday – Pressure Cooker Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots
Friday – YOYO Dinner then off to the rodeo
Saturday – Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas, Refried Beans, and Spanish Rice
Sunday – Use leftover roast to make BBQ Beef Sandwiches, Baked Beans, and Salad.
Money Saving Maine-iac says
What an interesting challenge. I like the quality of purchases you choose for your family. It makes you wonder if a family can eat healthy withing the constraints of a $400 monthly budget. One would need to have a variety of resources and a garden too. I'll have to watch for next week's final post.
Shana says
I think this is so cool. Those are some great buys on the organic products too.
The Book Lady Online says
I've been offline for a few weeks and had not heard of this challenge. Wow! You are doing so great!! I'm going to go back now and read your other updates.
Melissa says
You're doing great with this challenge, especially considering that you're not sacrificing organic produce to save money.
We had an expensive shopping trip last week, but I think this week we only need a few basics and sale items.