Times are tough. Many people are in need. We're blessed to both still have our jobs. However, in an effort to keep us both from being exceptionally stressed over money while I'm out on matrnity leave, I've tried to be as cheap as possible--especially looking for diapers on sale.
One day, Paul forwarded me an email from the chaplain at the college about the needs of some of the students. I learned there is actually a pantry set up at the college for students--including single parents--who are trying desperately to better themselves so they can have enough money to put food on the table. But, sometimes during that quest is a struggle to actually get food on the table. Hence the request from the chaplain to help fill the pantry. He also requested toiletries, and I know that chap stick is important for medical professionals to look more. . .professional.
So, I used a recommendation from a book by Coupon Mom who said a great way to help someone else is to use the sales and coupons for products you wouldn't normally buy to their advantage. I then acquired the items you see above for under $5. Keep in mind, I'm not a pro at this yet. Also, please know we are not looking to brag! My only goal is to inspire people to help out even when they think they can't--the same way that Coupon Mom inspired me.
Here's a few examples of great buys connected to the products:
- One box of potatoes came as a free sample with a coupon. I combined the coupon with a sale to basically get each box for $0.25. I could have gotten both for $0.25 if I had paid attention better to the sales around Christmas, but I told you I was still learning!
- The Neosporin was free with sale, coupons, and register rewards at Walgreens. (Keep in mind, the only way to make this successful is to be sure to use the register rewards!)
- The Rotels were on sale at Publix BOGO. There was a Publix coupon for two in the magazines at the front of the store plus a dispenser with a manufacturer's coupon for two in front of the product. Both cans cost me $0.09. (Yes, you can combine a BOGO with coupons for both products. Although Publix does not have a set coupon policy; so some stores may be pickier. Just keep your cool and ask for a manager.)
- The Suave was on sale with $1.00 off two manufacturer coupon and later I found a matching Publix coupon that would have yielded completely free products! I knew I had the coupon, but it had gotten lost in the deepest recesses of my purse. See? I'm not perfect. Let this be a lesson to you, too.
- Lastly, the Frito Cheese Dip is something my parents gave us because they had bought it while traveling and never ate it. I consider items like this cheap or free because even though it might have cost you money at some point, if you aren't using it, it's going to waste. However, if you at least give it away to a food pantry or something, it's good for them and makes you feel much better about buying something you never used.
The tuna fish is slightly hidden in the photo, but I should point it out so you don't think I'm intentionally trying to hide it since this is a vegetarian blog. The pouches were a very good price, and I don't believe in forcing other people to eat vegetarian food. Tuna is generally good for you, and I believe in being practical about the issue when it comes to people in need.
There might be more items to come along in the future, but unfortunately I only had time to get this together as I went into labor the next day.
