In the U.S., there are a few federal food assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Pandemic-EBT, and more that help families and individuals in need. Locally, many charity organizations host food banks and often provide food vouchers for members of the community. However, there are ways to cut the costs of food and groceries for those who do not qualify for federal assistance or simply want to save even more money.
This article will answer the following questions:
How can I save money on food?
Are there any organizations that help us get food at a low cost?
How do I use coupons and where can I find them?
Are there any technological tools like apps that help me with this?
Does this affect me or is it considered a public charge if I accept help?
How can I save money on food?
There are several ways to save money on food and groceries including, setting a budget, using physical and digital coupons and/or money-saving apps, and seeking out affordable and free food resources like food banks and food pantries.
Are there any organizations that help us buy food at a low cost?
Double Up helps you bring home more healthy food by matching your SNAP, or food stamps, dollars spent on fresh fruits and veggies, usually at farmer’s markets but also in some Whole Foods and other local grocery stores. If you receive SNAP benefits, you’re automatically eligible for Double Up Food Bucks. You can search for locations that “double” your food stamps on fruits and vegetables on their website.
Findhelp.org helps you find food assistance and other free and reduced programs in your area, as well as food pantries, which usually don’t require that you have documents.
Imperfect Foods is a company that allows you to create a weekly customized grocery plan starting at about $30 a week for a large box of food and produce. They deliver to your door and you can skip, change, or add as you go. It’s free to sign up.
Similarly, Misfits Market is a delivery service that allows you to save up to 40% (sometimes more) on groceries.
How do I use coupons and where can I find them?
Coupons are everywhere. While coupons are still available in your local newspaper, most (if not all) grocery stores have their own coupons in-store and through their apps. Coupon codes can be found online on sites like retailmenot and coupons.com for virtually anything.
Most stores allow you to show a digital coupon on your phone at checkout, or you can hand your cashier your physical coupons as well. It’s easy!
Grocery stores in the United States almost always have a loyalty program. All you need to do is ask to sign up for the grocery store card which you will scan every time you purchase groceries. When you use the card you will get deals on different food items throughout the store. These deals change every week and you don’t need a coupon, just scan the card.
Are there any technological tools like apps that help me with this?
Enjoy delicious meals from hundreds of restaurants and cafes for at least 50% off with the Food for All app.
Basket is a smart app that price checks shopping items between stores. Comparing prices to find the best deals and promotions.
Apps such as ibotta, shopkick, fetch rewards, give you cash back or rewards each time you shop for groceries.
Browser extensions like rakuten and honey are easy to use because all you have to do is install it on your computer, and they will look for coupons and coupon codes for you while you shop online.
Tip: many grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, Randall’s, Publix, H-E-B, and more allow for online shopping and curbside grocery pickup, which helps stay under budget since you can view how much your total cost is before paying. You can also see store specials and coupons online while you shop.
Does this affect me or is it considered a public charge if I accept help?
Public charge is no longer in effect for food programs, and accepting any kind of federal food assistance or help from charitable organizations will not affect your immigration plans.
For more information about food banks and free meals and groceries, click here.
If you need immediate food help, call 2-1-1, which will connect you over the phone with someone who can help you find resources in your specific location.
