Broke and Hungry? Eat This!

With the current state of our economy, many people bring in a too much to qualify for food stamps, but not enough to leave a good amount for food after the bills are paid. But, eating is not an option! You must have enough good food to fill you up and keep you healthy.



Almost every town, and all large cities, has a food bank. Simply call 211 and ask them where the closest food bank is. Pride stands in the way of some people asking for help, but if you’re broke, it is time to swallow your pride and get in line. Staples are typically what you’ll receive- canned beans and vegetables, rice, peanut butter, and surplus government cheese. But, these things can be used, in combination with what small amounts of other things you are able to buy, to put together some meals for you and your family.

When you’re down to your last $5 or $10, it is tempting to hit a fast food restaurant and grab some quick and cheap burgers. (Which have become cheaper due to the recession.) However, take that money into a grocery store and you can pick up enough food for a few days. A pack of hot dogs or hamburger, some buns, and a bag of potatoes can make several meals. Eggs are another very inexpensive option that packs a nutritional punch. Pick up some bread, bologna, sliced cheese, ramen noodles, tuna fish, peanut butter, and pork and beans. Be creative- beans and wieners are a good and hearty meal for four that can cost under $3. Bologna and cheese sandwiches paired with ramen noodles will also fill you up cheaply.


Stuff potatoes with salsa, beans, cheese, veggies, or chili for a filling, and cheap, meal. Sprinkle on a little grated choose or add a dollop of sour cream to make them even more yummy.


Macaroni & Cheese can get old quick, but there are a couple ways to add to it and make a complete meal. Stir a can of chili into it after preparing and just before serving, and it has a completely different taste and feel. Tuna ‘casserole’ made by stirring in some frozen peas and a can of tuna fish is filling and delicious as well.



Whole chickens are great buys. Roast it and serve half one night with some potatoes and vegetables, and save the other half to make a nice soup or casserole dish. You can cut up the chicken, mix it with some frozen mixed vegetables and a can of cream soup for a bubbly and delicious meal. If you have baking mix or canned biscuits, put them on top before popping into the oven.



Buy store brands, and shop at places like Save-a-Lot and Aldi’s, where your money goes so much further.One exception to that rule is when a store has awesome sales, like buy one get one free deals on meats. Then try to hit the store on Saturday, when all of the sample people are there. You could easily eat enough to skip lunch!



Guest post by Denise Gabbard for Discount Vouchers, where you’ll save money with Argos discount vouchers and Dell discount codes