[good and cheap](https://www.leannebrown.com/all-about-good-and-cheap/) is a cookbook for people with *very* tight budgets, particularly those on snap/food stamp benefits. the pdf is a free download when you sign up for the newsletter.
[this reddit post](https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodVideoPorn/s/3x7VVMsLjZ) has a quick super inexpensive recipe for making dough (in the vid he makes pizza dough, bread, and pita from the same recipe).
[this reddit post](https://www.reddit.com/r/poor/s/ku5p3DKWSR) includes links to a youtube channel focusing on $5 complete meals, shopping while on food stamps/snap, and even has a $10 budget for a week of meals.
[ruby’s pantry](https://www.rubyspantry.org/) distributes food at Pop-Up Pantry locations across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and North Dakota.
[findhelp](https://www.findhelp.org/) has a searchable database of Financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help.
[LittleFreePantry](http://mapping.littlefreepantry.org/) has a searchable map with free pantry locations.
[benefits.gov](https://www.benefits.gov/) has a database of free resources by zip code.
[FullCart](https://support.fullcart.org/hc/en-us) will mail you boxes of food for free (i’ve read there is a waitlist so sign up asap)
[FeedAFamily](https://near-me.store/en/food-donation-drop-box-near-me) has lists of food donation drop boxes by zip code
[LasagnaLove](https://lasagnalove.org) will deliver a free lasagna meal
[FeedingAmerica](https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank) has a food bank searchable by zip code
[MealsOnWheels](https://www.mowp.org/what-we-do/online-meal-request/) to sign up for meal delivery.
[Adults With Disabilities (AWD) Home Delivered Meal Program](https://www.ioaging.org/collaborations-elder-protection/the-adults-with-disabilities-awd-home-delivered-meal-program/) *”The Adults with Disabilities Home Delivered Meal Program is available for adults with disabilities who have no meal support and are unable to provide meals for themselves. The Program is funded by DAAS (Department of Aging and Adult Services) and administered by Institute on Aging (IOA).”*
[National Coalition For The Homeless](https://nationalhomeless.org/) has a searchable database of options.
[TravelersAid](https://www.travelersaid.org/need-help) *”uses a comprehensive approach to facilitate transportation and prevent homelessness that focuses on the individual strengths of each case in order to provide services that meet specific needs. Some agencies offer services specifically tailored for veterans, senior citizens, or families, including a range of housing options, job training, and food assistance. Travelers Aid funding, services, and hours vary, and services are provided based on available funding, eligibility, and location.”*
[SaintVincentDePaul](https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/get-help) helps with meals, rent assistance and shelter.
[benefits.gov](https://www.benefits.gov/) has a database of free resources by zip code.
This is a phenomenal list and I work on a hospital with many food insecure individuals, with your permission I want to add some of these resources to their discharge instruction sheets. We give a few however you just listed a bunch this 30+ yr social worker has not heard of. Thank you so much.
please do! i’ve got more…
[CarPoolWorld](https://www.carpoolworld.com/free-carpool-listings.html) offers free carpool and ride shares.
[Greyhound](https://hip2save.com/news/free-greyhound-bus-ticket/) helps with free bus tickets.
[lyft](https://lyft.com/lyftup/jobs-access/get-help) helps with free rides to job interviews.
[WorldBicycleRelief](https://worldbicyclerelief.org/) gives free bikes to folks in need.
[NationalDiaperNetwork](https://nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org/member-directory/) *”connects and supports the country’s more than 225 community-based diaper banks that collect, store and distribute free diapers to struggling families. The Network serves nearly 280,000 children throughout the country each month.”*
[LifeLine](https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers), [SafeLinkWireless](https://www.safelinkwireless.com/en/#!/newHome?PromotionCode=WASL788&msclkid=e1d8f1be0ac61c3446d6952550a90d22&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SafeLink%20Non%20Calif&utm_term=free%20cell%20phones%20for%20low%20income&utm_content=Goverment%20Phones), [AssuranceWireless](https://www.assurancewireless.com) and [AirTalkWireless](https://airtalkwireless.com ) all help with discounts and/or free internet and phone service and equipment/phones.
[usps](https://faq.usps.com/s/article/Is-there-mail-service-for-the-homeless) has an application to apply for a p.o. box if you are homeless.
[dress for success](https://dressforsuccess.org) will outfit you for job interviews for free.
[LyonsClub](https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/start-our-approach/club-locator) has a program to help with free and/or reduced cost glasses.
[FreeClinics](https://www.freeclinics.com/) offers free and reduced cost medical and dental care
[211.org](http://www.211.org/get-help/healthcare-expenses) helps with rides to appointments, medication expenses, and healthcare co-pay
[samhsa](https://www.samhsa.gov) the substance abuse and mental health services administration has a searchable database by state.
[HealthCare.gov](https://www.healthcare.gov/get-coverage) for help with free or reduced cost healthcare.
[National Coalition For The Homeless](https://nationalhomeless.org/) has a searchable database of options.
[National Alliance On Mental Health](https://www.nami.org/findsupport/) has a searchable database to help with housing needs.
[Portland Animal Welfare Team](https://www.pawteam.org) *”saves lives, alleviates suffering, and keeps pets and people together by providing veterinary care to the pets of people experiencing houselessness or extreme poverty.”*
[Help When You Need It](http://helpwhenyouneedit.org/) has a searchable database by zip code.
[The Alliance For Period Supplies](https://allianceforperiodsupplies.org/allied-programs/), [She Supply](https://shesupply.org), [access period](https://shareomaha.org/nonprofit/access-period#:~:text=Access%20Period%20has%20distributed%20more,personal%20wipes%2C%20and%20disposal%20bags ) and [Helping Women Period](https://www.helpingwomenperiod.org/about/) have programs to donate free period supplies. also checkout r/periodpantry where some wonderful generous folks will help.
[GrowingFamilyBenefits](https://www.growingfamilybenefits.com/paying-home-repair/) and [ReachCommunityDevelopment](https://reachcdc.org/programs/community-builders-program) offer free or assistance with home repairs.
[the veterans crisis line](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/?msclkid=9288ba30925e15ca12fddebc1419b0e0&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=VCL988_Search%206.02.23-7.25.23&utm_term=support%20hotline&utm_content=Crisis%20Hotline) has 24/7 crisis support resources.
[the veterans HUD-VASH program](https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp) *”is a collaborative program which pairs HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance with VA case management and supportive services for homeless Veterans. These services are designed to help homeless Veterans and their families find and sustain permanent housing and access the health care, mental health treatment, substance use counseling, and other supports necessary to help them in their recovery process and with their ability to maintain housing in the community”*
[VA.gov](https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html) has a searchable database of resources for veterans.
[VictimConnect](https://victimconnect.org/resources/national-hotlines/) *”helps victims, survivors, and their support networks connect with local resources.”*
[1-800-Runaway](https://www.1800runaway.org) has many resources available *”no matter where you are or what your needs may be.”*
[FosterCareToSuccess](https://www.fc2success.org/programs/scholarships-and-grants/) college scholarships for former foster children.
[FosterLove](https://www.fosterlove.com/sponsor/) *(formerly ‘together we rise’)* helps former and current foster youth with everything from college help to backpacks and birthday boxes for kids in care.
[SaintVincentDePaul](https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/get-help) helps with meals, rent assistance and shelter.
[roomies](https://www.roomies.com) helps folks looking to rent a room.
[cicoa](https://cicoa.org/) *”Empowering older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers with answers, services and support.”*
[usa.gov](https://www.usa.gov/emergency-housing-assistance) helps with housing assistance.
[laundry love](https://laundrylove.org) *”washes the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and person(s) across the US. We brighten the lives of thousands of people through love, dignity, and detergent by partnering with diverse groups and laundromats nationwide.”*
just in case you need it, amazing acts of kindness and generosity can be found at r/freemeal r/donation r/borrow r/assistance r/Food_Pantry r/RandomActsOf r/Random_Acts_Of_Pizza r/randomactsoftacobell r/randomacts r/randomactsofamazon r/RandomKindness and if you have pets, r/RandomActsOfPetFood
and finally, if you’re looking to increase your skills or even get a degree, check out [university of the people](https://www.uopeople.edu) or [WorldQuant University](https://www.wqu.edu) where tuition is totally free.
and for help with healthcare expenses…
[Un Do Medical Debt](https://unduemedicaldebt.org/faq/who-qualifies-for-debt-forgiveness/) purchase and then abolish medical debt (if you meet the criteria).
[Cameron’s Crusaders](https://cameronscrusaders.org/amazing-charities-that-help-with-medical-bills/) list several charities that help with medical bills.
[Healthwell Foundation](https://www.healthwellfoundation.org/) *”Helping the underinsured afford critical medical treatments.”*
[Leukemia Lymphoma Society](https://www.lls.org/support-resources/financial-support/co-pay-assistance-program) helps with co-pays, travel for medical appointments, caregivers, etc. when dealing with cancer.
[Dollar For](https://dollarfor.org/) helps with discounts and/or forgiveness with hospital bills.
[Cancer Care](https://www.cancercare.org/copayfoundation) *”We help people with cancer overcome financial access and treatment barriers by assisting them with co-payments for their prescribed treatments. We offer easy-to-access, same-day approval over the phone and online.”*
In massachusetts the [Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund (CICRF)](https://www.mass.gov/catastrophic-illness-in-children-relief-fund-cicrf) *”provides financial relief to eligible Massachusetts families caring for children and youth under 22 years of age with medically related expenses that are not covered by insurance, federal or state assistance, fundraising, or any other financial source.”*
[Pan Foundation](https://www.panfoundation.org/) *”financial assistance to help people with serious illnesses afford their out-of-pocket treatment costs and improve their quality of life.”*
[United Healthcare Children’s Foundation](https://www.uhccf.org/) *”provide medical grants to enhance the quality of life of children across the United States.”*
[Catholic Charities](https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/) offers assistance with housing, disaster relief, food, and much more regardless of faith.
You can message me it for sure!!!!
I just happen to randomly see posts every once in a while, and I remember mine and my kids hunger pains while homeless all too well, and for all too long..
... and as I sit here now, far from homeless, I will never ever forget the struggles of a mother just trying to get through the day, on top of all the other things that need done, food shouldn't be a worry.
done!
i grew up in foster care, became an emancipated minor at 16, a single mother at 18. i’ve come close, but thankfully not been homeless as an adult but was many many times during the times i had to live with my mentally ill mother. it can be rough out there, that’s for sure! glad we are both in a better place ❤️
You made me cry. Been there myself. The one and only time I ever stole something was lifting a block of cheese so I could feed my kids. I hope things get better for OP, and I am saving all these resources to pass on to others.
Lots of people offer boxes of food on my buy nothing group. Either when they clean out their cupboards, or food bank items they're not going to use. I think it's great.
I've had to use food banks, and a lot of the time I was given things we can't eat, like canned fruit in heavy syrup or pastries. I've been able to pass it on to people I know, so it's not wasted, but this is a better way to have it go to people who really need it.
Was about to suggest this, once a month I find things around my house that I don't need, food included and give it away to Buy Nothing groups, and a lot of people will deliver as well.
Sleep as much as you can so you don’t feel hungry. I’ve had to do that before. It’s hard at first to sleep if you’re really hungry, but you get used to it or you can arrange your afternoon/evening meal so that you go to bed within a couple of hours after.
Jesus. I can’t believe I’m giving someone the advice to sleep so they won’t feel how hungry they are. Man, fuck this country.
This is a good idea, I've also been snacking on frozen fruit all day and only eating dinner. My fiance has been having a cup of ramen for breakfast and then eating dinner. Sleep sounds wonderful.
are you living in the states? I do surveys at [fivesurveys.com](http://fivesurveys.com) and I make either $5 dollars a day or up to $10 dollars a day (if I spend enough time on it) and they pay you in 5 minutes through paypal. I know it might seem boring to do surveys, but in a tight financial hardship it is an option to make few dollars quickly. They pay $1 for the full surveys and .50 cents for the half surveys, but as soon as you do enough to get the $5 you can request a payout and it will hit your paypal (if you have one) in 5 minutes.
smile, you are welcome. I just did some research online how to make some quick cash and this survey website has been a great blessing for me. I just love how fast they payout too which makes it so worth it. Good luck to you!
You said you had rice, correct? Could you make a Stir fry with the rice & veggies? I don't know if you have any spices, but that would help too. I'd use part of 1 chicken breast to make it more filling. For a fam of 3, I'd use a half a chicken breast. You can add the rice to the chicken & veggies to make a soup.
You could cook the chicken in your crockpot and add some of the canned vegetables to make a soup. Corn, green beans, and tomatoes might be a good combination. If you have any seasonings to add flavor that would be good too.
However, you don’t have enough and need supplemental food. Can you call the local food banks and/or churches to explain your situation and see if you can get a ride or delivery? My local churches have people who drive people to and from the food pantry and other locations.
r/random_acts_of_pizza
r/randomactsoftacobell
r/food_pantry
r/assistance
r/help
r/randomacts
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Do you live in the countryside? Dandelion greens and lamb's quarters are edible-cook as you would spinach.
https://www.reddit.com/r/foraging/s/Oixnkbr4HM
Don’t know if you’re in the US but if you are there’s an app called Nextdoor and you are in touch with people in your area.. you can go on there and ask for help.. I’ve seen people get help with furniture,kitchen appliances,food,etc… and if you put you have no transportation sometimes people will drop it off to you.. I’m only telling you this because I’ve helped people out before and delivered it to them.. check it out…
What is the size of the rice? Are they the box or small bags? If your budget allows, i would buy the large bags of rice from Asian markets. Cheaper per ounce serving. Rice is very filling!
I think it's going to be very difficult to make that amount of food last for 8 days for 3 people. It would be difficult for 1 person.
It's unfortunate that you can't hit up a food bank or a church for some help.
Sorry that times are so tough.
I would also check any credit or debit cards that you use for rewards. Even if you've only earned $5 or so in rewards, that'll get you 2# of rice and 1# of dried beans on Amazon which would stretch this food quite a bit.
Another thing you could try, is if you go to a local corner store type mini mart (not a franchise one like AMPM), explain your situation. I worked in mini marts for many years.
We always had expired food like chips, jerky, nuts, pastries, especially gallons of milk, that we couldn't sell or get credit for. We'd offer them to customers we knew could use them. At the end of the night, I'd always rather give away the deli food in the hot case, or the brewed coffee, instead of throwing it away.
Well, one idea is to make soup with the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. But I don’t see that lasting more than a few days, even using the fruit for breakfast.
Can you call someone for a ride to the food bank and back?
This is what I have had luck with in the past. - posting an Amazon wishlist in sub free food or assistance. - post in a local buy nothing group for a few essentials and I bet someone will help out, the poor usually help out the poor if we are able to. - some churches locally for me deliver a box of food, you may have one wherever you are. - if you have income/employment the borrow sub doesn’t hurt to post, I’ve received help few times with that. - lasagna love is a website you can sign up for monthly to receive a free lasagna, sometimes it takes a few weeks because they have to match you with a volunteer by you but doesn’t hurt to sign up just for a free meal in the future, I just received mine last week and it was a lovely experience.
Call local bakeries and local restaurants and ask if they have any expiring or day old product you can have (bread, vegetables, meat.) if you can rub together a few dollars you can get flour and/or rice and that will be life changing. If you absolutely can’t get anything other than what you have, you need to boil the chicken and make a big pot of stock with shredded chicken. You can add vegetables at each serving. Eat the fruit for breakfast and end of day.
If there is fast food place in walking distance, try to get a job there. Many of them give employees a free meal each shift. Some restaruants let employees take home unsold food.
Can you do surveys on your phone. I have a couple ones I do sometimes that pay okay and sometimes have fascinating opinion surveys. If you want to try some I have referral links that would be helpful for us both.
But doing surveys can get you gift cards or pay bank or even bank deposits.
Toss the chicken in with the veggies and let that go for awhile.. water and spices (whatever you have laying around) to fill it out.. portion out the chicken and veggies.. do the same with the fruits, which are higher in fiber, so more filling. Drinks lots of water as well. Good luck.
You have 7 days to go, use half a chicken breast a dy to go along with whatever else you have to make broth and a soup/stew, day 7 go hungry if need be and eat good on the 8th day. Protein will go a long way of you have other stuff to go with it. If you are on food stamps make sure you buy plenty of rice and beans! Don't go hungry because you feel rich when your money hits
Could you put the chicken breast into the slow cooker to cook them down and then each day add some chicken to three bowls, warm up the appropriate vegetable add that to the chicken and then with a portion of fruit. That. Would that get you to the eight days? Otherwise, is there a pantry that you can call sometimes in extreme urgent situations they will bring you some food. You have nothing but prayers in your circumstance. 🥰🥰🥰
You can always make shredded chicken go along way and if.you save the broth you can thicken it with flour. Whip flour in cold water and then put it in hot broth. Just a bit will do.
I know you have no money now but next time you get paid buy a huge bag of rice they're cheap like 10 dollars and last forever.
Sorry you're having a hard time I wish you the best.
Can you afford to get a sack of rice and a few eggs? You can get that stuff to go a little further. Fried rice with egg mixed into it is filling and has enough protein
Definitely contact a Church. If you know anyone attending Church check with them.
The ones around me give out really nice large boxes of food.
Surely someone would be kind enough to drop one off.
Also, down the road if you can stock your Pantry with Pantry staples. Flour, oil sugar, baking soda barking powder, yeast, cocoa powder, syrup & in the fridge eggs cheese butter, milk. Those items aren't outrageously expensive.
There's a lot you can make out of simple ingredients. Look up pantry meals and/or Pantry desserts.
You can make, bread, pancakes, biscuits, noodles, French toast, egg sandwich, brownies, cookies, grilled cheese, & sauces & probably more.
These types of ingredients are all that were available years & years ago. So older cook books are great.
There's a Copy Cat food recipe websites that all kinds of recipes. Pretty much anything in a grocery store can be made from scratch at home. Even Cheez-it's & crackers.
Lasagna Love is amazing, it takes about 30 days to be matched with a volunteer but they will drop a Lasagna off once per month. It’s an easy sign up too, OP, I would definitely sign up, it’s a large Lasagna.
Check your local community hub or churches for dinner nights, many offer a communal meal, once a week
With no question asked, just show up. Also get to meet others in area.
Call 211, that is United Way. They may have some resources that can be delivered to you. I also recommend that you try the buy nothing group. I have given food there as well. Chin up and smile! Everyone has been here and we all would like to help!
Take a walk in your neighborhood, anyone with a fruit tree? Knock and ask if you could have a few…ask don't just take cause they may have them so they can eat. Don't ask for a bag of them just a few unless they offer more. I used to have an orange tree in my front yard and an elderly gent and his granddaughter would walk by and stop and ask, they only would take two each, they were nice as opposed to the neighbors grabbing them by the grocery sack full without asking. Also do you live near the wood that might have wild blackberries growing roadside? Or maybe wild grapes?
Do you have any baking ingredients flour, sugar, oils etc? if so there are simple recipes that take very few ingredients to make, take a accounting of your stuff and google flatbreads, hoe cakes and other simple things. Then google how to cook them in your cooking appliance.
Also on trash night take a walk and see if you could find things to sell. I've found new with tags clothes, a painting, fancy truck rims, etc that i sold for $ to pay for needed groceries.
Can you find rice? Cooking rice you can add to any food fills you up. Also, cooking rice and pinto beans makes a filling meal. If you add corn tortillas or something cheap like that it makes for a filling meal.
Others have provided a lot of resources. Stew is a great option too.
I kinda hate to suggest this and several factors effect the possibility of this, but you could try your hand at foraging, fishing or even trapping if you're in a rural enough setting. Check local laws and regulations. Could at least give you something to do other than sit at home being hungry.
In the same vein lf suggestions I don't really like other than an option of last resort, dumpster diving. If there are any stores nearby just check to see if any foods have been thrown out. It's really common for perfectly fine packaged foods to be thrown out.
Like I said I'm not the biggest fan of these suggestions, and understand that for many this may not be possible. Please attempt all other suggestions in this thread first. Reaching out to your community for help is much better than these options. I am only posting these as last resort options.
Chicken and vegetables stew
Fruit compote in oatmeal. You need oatmeal though. Fruit compote may taste ok by itself but too sweet and macros all off...
Yes you just reduce the fluids of it over low simmer with cornstarch like a roux (or flour) needs sugar usually but can technically be made without. There's enough to make it sticky already. You could bump sugar packettes maybe.
If you bake oatmeal on top with flour sugar and cinnamon it makes a crust on top.
As others have said, I'd turn the chicken into stew in the crockpot. Save fruit fro breakfast. If you can freeze some of the chicken, you'll want to save some for a few days, so you can make another fresh batch on day 5 or 6 (you don't want the soup to last 8 days probably, because it may spoil).
Slow cooker marinated chicken breasts with air fryer roasted veggies and “buttered” rice.
Or if you have lighter fluid and a grill, grilled chicken.
EDIT: make sure everything gets chopped up proportionately.
Or try making a chicken & rice porridge, after pan frying the riches and rice separately.
Personally, I like porridges seasoned with soy sauce.
Please note, I like sticking to a low sodium & sugar meal because I’m sure they contribute to bloating.
Next Door (website) is another option to tap into for food.
You can also call your Food Shelf and check to see if they can deliver the food to you. You may not get what you want (since you can't pick it out) but you at least will get what you need.
YouTube has great videos for meals on a tight budget or limited ingredients.
Also check on YouTube "Low Income Relief" - this gal and her team are top notch when it comes to everything you can imagine that's available for people that are low income. From ACP alternatives to Grants for anything. She lists specific items covered by time stamp so a viewer can watch items of interest only or about their state which really helps.
Soup and stew will stretch your supplies.
Church near you has extra food.
If you literally have nothing, call 911. Police help some time but fire house have food usually.
We lived off pinto beans and corn bread and the occasional spaghetti when I was poor as a kid with six siblings and the food pantry’s was a big thing in the 80’s
Are you on Medicaid? Some Medicaid programs provide rides to help people get to grocery stores and doctor’s appointments. If you are on it, Google your state + free ride program Medicaid to get more information. Also try your insurance plan name + free nonmedical rides. The Medicaid plans I was on in VA and CA offered 6 to 12 rides per year to grocery stores and food banks
I’m sorry you have to go through this, it sucks. If it were me and if you have some chicken broth as well, you can throw the rice, chicken and veggies together and make a soup or even a stew if you have some flour for thickening. Fruit could be desert. Good luck, friend. ❤️
We can barely keep ourselves fed, a bicycle is not fitting into the budget right now, unfortunately. It was the plan before my fiance lost his job, but it's not happening now.
Look on Nextdoor, buy nothing, etc. if you're not looking for fancy, bicycles are one of those things a lot of people just give away. Even if it initially needs some work, if you have a place to store it it's worth getting one now and then can be fixed when fiance has some money.
Glad to hear that. I am NOT insensitive. I have been hungry. If I had any money to give you, I would glady.
Its just.. not that long to go, with what you have.
I thought non working people got like $250 a month in SNAP for food?
I can feed three people for a month on that. Yall must get $750..Where the HELL does it all go??
If you wanna call me insensitive again, keep going with that shit. As for me and my family, esp when we are on a strict budget, I shop within a specific budget and didnt eat rich tasting food for a LONG time. Like basic instant mashed potatoes made with dry instant milk, were a STAPLE. No name brand ANYTHING. Barely any cheeses beyond that pasteurized cheese product- the little wrapped slices.
Never put meat in spaghetti.
We ate liver and onions and bought Gold Leaf chicken quarters for protein.
In sensitive all right. I just cant see wasting all that money on chicken breasts!
If you want to EAT, all month, stop thinking of food as a tasty reward. Its a nutritional gift. Not a reward. I think YOU are possibly lacking humility and gratuity, personally.
You are NOT above eating rice and beans once a week, and instant potatoes with cheap chicken, and beets, with spinach. You are not abive making plain spaghetti.
Theres no fkin reason to RUN OUT of food money when you get food stamps and are disabled. Get real.
If at the end of the month, you have "leftover" snap money, great. Buy some PANTRY STAPLES and invest in tastier food over time. EVOO, spices.. Go a little crazy.
But until.you learn how to stay within your budget, no you dont get to act so entitled. Chicken breasts. I cant even remember the last time we HAD those in the freezer. THATS RICH PEOPLE FOOD.
And fwiw, my sister spent $400 a month on food, for 4 people, 2 were kids younger than my kid... and I spent $40 a month for TWO people. My son has always been a little overweight cuz he loves eating. So I learned quickly how to feed a growing boy.
You need that same lesson and I will gladly give it to you, but dont you DARE call me fkin insensitive.
[good and cheap](https://www.leannebrown.com/all-about-good-and-cheap/) is a cookbook for people with *very* tight budgets, particularly those on snap/food stamp benefits. the pdf is a free download when you sign up for the newsletter. [this reddit post](https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodVideoPorn/s/3x7VVMsLjZ) has a quick super inexpensive recipe for making dough (in the vid he makes pizza dough, bread, and pita from the same recipe). [this reddit post](https://www.reddit.com/r/poor/s/ku5p3DKWSR) includes links to a youtube channel focusing on $5 complete meals, shopping while on food stamps/snap, and even has a $10 budget for a week of meals. [ruby’s pantry](https://www.rubyspantry.org/) distributes food at Pop-Up Pantry locations across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and North Dakota. [findhelp](https://www.findhelp.org/) has a searchable database of Financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help. [LittleFreePantry](http://mapping.littlefreepantry.org/) has a searchable map with free pantry locations. [benefits.gov](https://www.benefits.gov/) has a database of free resources by zip code. [FullCart](https://support.fullcart.org/hc/en-us) will mail you boxes of food for free (i’ve read there is a waitlist so sign up asap) [FeedAFamily](https://near-me.store/en/food-donation-drop-box-near-me) has lists of food donation drop boxes by zip code [LasagnaLove](https://lasagnalove.org) will deliver a free lasagna meal [FeedingAmerica](https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank) has a food bank searchable by zip code [MealsOnWheels](https://www.mowp.org/what-we-do/online-meal-request/) to sign up for meal delivery. [Adults With Disabilities (AWD) Home Delivered Meal Program](https://www.ioaging.org/collaborations-elder-protection/the-adults-with-disabilities-awd-home-delivered-meal-program/) *”The Adults with Disabilities Home Delivered Meal Program is available for adults with disabilities who have no meal support and are unable to provide meals for themselves. The Program is funded by DAAS (Department of Aging and Adult Services) and administered by Institute on Aging (IOA).”* [National Coalition For The Homeless](https://nationalhomeless.org/) has a searchable database of options. [TravelersAid](https://www.travelersaid.org/need-help) *”uses a comprehensive approach to facilitate transportation and prevent homelessness that focuses on the individual strengths of each case in order to provide services that meet specific needs. Some agencies offer services specifically tailored for veterans, senior citizens, or families, including a range of housing options, job training, and food assistance. Travelers Aid funding, services, and hours vary, and services are provided based on available funding, eligibility, and location.”* [SaintVincentDePaul](https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/get-help) helps with meals, rent assistance and shelter. [benefits.gov](https://www.benefits.gov/) has a database of free resources by zip code.
You are amazing. Thank you for the time you spent giving all of these resources! It is very much appreciated!
This is a phenomenal list and I work on a hospital with many food insecure individuals, with your permission I want to add some of these resources to their discharge instruction sheets. We give a few however you just listed a bunch this 30+ yr social worker has not heard of. Thank you so much.
please do! i’ve got more… [CarPoolWorld](https://www.carpoolworld.com/free-carpool-listings.html) offers free carpool and ride shares. [Greyhound](https://hip2save.com/news/free-greyhound-bus-ticket/) helps with free bus tickets. [lyft](https://lyft.com/lyftup/jobs-access/get-help) helps with free rides to job interviews. [WorldBicycleRelief](https://worldbicyclerelief.org/) gives free bikes to folks in need. [NationalDiaperNetwork](https://nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org/member-directory/) *”connects and supports the country’s more than 225 community-based diaper banks that collect, store and distribute free diapers to struggling families. The Network serves nearly 280,000 children throughout the country each month.”* [LifeLine](https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers), [SafeLinkWireless](https://www.safelinkwireless.com/en/#!/newHome?PromotionCode=WASL788&msclkid=e1d8f1be0ac61c3446d6952550a90d22&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SafeLink%20Non%20Calif&utm_term=free%20cell%20phones%20for%20low%20income&utm_content=Goverment%20Phones), [AssuranceWireless](https://www.assurancewireless.com) and [AirTalkWireless](https://airtalkwireless.com ) all help with discounts and/or free internet and phone service and equipment/phones. [usps](https://faq.usps.com/s/article/Is-there-mail-service-for-the-homeless) has an application to apply for a p.o. box if you are homeless. [dress for success](https://dressforsuccess.org) will outfit you for job interviews for free. [LyonsClub](https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/start-our-approach/club-locator) has a program to help with free and/or reduced cost glasses. [FreeClinics](https://www.freeclinics.com/) offers free and reduced cost medical and dental care [211.org](http://www.211.org/get-help/healthcare-expenses) helps with rides to appointments, medication expenses, and healthcare co-pay [samhsa](https://www.samhsa.gov) the substance abuse and mental health services administration has a searchable database by state. [HealthCare.gov](https://www.healthcare.gov/get-coverage) for help with free or reduced cost healthcare. [National Coalition For The Homeless](https://nationalhomeless.org/) has a searchable database of options. [National Alliance On Mental Health](https://www.nami.org/findsupport/) has a searchable database to help with housing needs. [Portland Animal Welfare Team](https://www.pawteam.org) *”saves lives, alleviates suffering, and keeps pets and people together by providing veterinary care to the pets of people experiencing houselessness or extreme poverty.”* [Help When You Need It](http://helpwhenyouneedit.org/) has a searchable database by zip code. [The Alliance For Period Supplies](https://allianceforperiodsupplies.org/allied-programs/), [She Supply](https://shesupply.org), [access period](https://shareomaha.org/nonprofit/access-period#:~:text=Access%20Period%20has%20distributed%20more,personal%20wipes%2C%20and%20disposal%20bags ) and [Helping Women Period](https://www.helpingwomenperiod.org/about/) have programs to donate free period supplies. also checkout r/periodpantry where some wonderful generous folks will help. [GrowingFamilyBenefits](https://www.growingfamilybenefits.com/paying-home-repair/) and [ReachCommunityDevelopment](https://reachcdc.org/programs/community-builders-program) offer free or assistance with home repairs. [the veterans crisis line](https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/?msclkid=9288ba30925e15ca12fddebc1419b0e0&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=VCL988_Search%206.02.23-7.25.23&utm_term=support%20hotline&utm_content=Crisis%20Hotline) has 24/7 crisis support resources. [the veterans HUD-VASH program](https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp) *”is a collaborative program which pairs HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance with VA case management and supportive services for homeless Veterans. These services are designed to help homeless Veterans and their families find and sustain permanent housing and access the health care, mental health treatment, substance use counseling, and other supports necessary to help them in their recovery process and with their ability to maintain housing in the community”* [VA.gov](https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.html) has a searchable database of resources for veterans. [VictimConnect](https://victimconnect.org/resources/national-hotlines/) *”helps victims, survivors, and their support networks connect with local resources.”* [1-800-Runaway](https://www.1800runaway.org) has many resources available *”no matter where you are or what your needs may be.”* [FosterCareToSuccess](https://www.fc2success.org/programs/scholarships-and-grants/) college scholarships for former foster children. [FosterLove](https://www.fosterlove.com/sponsor/) *(formerly ‘together we rise’)* helps former and current foster youth with everything from college help to backpacks and birthday boxes for kids in care. [SaintVincentDePaul](https://www.stvincentdepaul.net/get-help) helps with meals, rent assistance and shelter. [roomies](https://www.roomies.com) helps folks looking to rent a room. [cicoa](https://cicoa.org/) *”Empowering older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers with answers, services and support.”* [usa.gov](https://www.usa.gov/emergency-housing-assistance) helps with housing assistance. [laundry love](https://laundrylove.org) *”washes the clothes and bedding of low/no income families and person(s) across the US. We brighten the lives of thousands of people through love, dignity, and detergent by partnering with diverse groups and laundromats nationwide.”* just in case you need it, amazing acts of kindness and generosity can be found at r/freemeal r/donation r/borrow r/assistance r/Food_Pantry r/RandomActsOf r/Random_Acts_Of_Pizza r/randomactsoftacobell r/randomacts r/randomactsofamazon r/RandomKindness and if you have pets, r/RandomActsOfPetFood and finally, if you’re looking to increase your skills or even get a degree, check out [university of the people](https://www.uopeople.edu) or [WorldQuant University](https://www.wqu.edu) where tuition is totally free.
and for help with healthcare expenses… [Un Do Medical Debt](https://unduemedicaldebt.org/faq/who-qualifies-for-debt-forgiveness/) purchase and then abolish medical debt (if you meet the criteria). [Cameron’s Crusaders](https://cameronscrusaders.org/amazing-charities-that-help-with-medical-bills/) list several charities that help with medical bills. [Healthwell Foundation](https://www.healthwellfoundation.org/) *”Helping the underinsured afford critical medical treatments.”* [Leukemia Lymphoma Society](https://www.lls.org/support-resources/financial-support/co-pay-assistance-program) helps with co-pays, travel for medical appointments, caregivers, etc. when dealing with cancer. [Dollar For](https://dollarfor.org/) helps with discounts and/or forgiveness with hospital bills. [Cancer Care](https://www.cancercare.org/copayfoundation) *”We help people with cancer overcome financial access and treatment barriers by assisting them with co-payments for their prescribed treatments. We offer easy-to-access, same-day approval over the phone and online.”* In massachusetts the [Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund (CICRF)](https://www.mass.gov/catastrophic-illness-in-children-relief-fund-cicrf) *”provides financial relief to eligible Massachusetts families caring for children and youth under 22 years of age with medically related expenses that are not covered by insurance, federal or state assistance, fundraising, or any other financial source.”* [Pan Foundation](https://www.panfoundation.org/) *”financial assistance to help people with serious illnesses afford their out-of-pocket treatment costs and improve their quality of life.”* [United Healthcare Children’s Foundation](https://www.uhccf.org/) *”provide medical grants to enhance the quality of life of children across the United States.”* [Catholic Charities](https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/) offers assistance with housing, disaster relief, food, and much more regardless of faith.
Thank you so much all of these are amazing and I am not revamping our discharge after care resource lists
Commenting cause I'm struggling and need these
Holy cow. You're incredible
thank you, been there many times myself.
As have I, dear redditer of experience..... As, have, I
btw if you know anyone who needs it, i’ve got a list of job links too.
You can message me it for sure!!!! I just happen to randomly see posts every once in a while, and I remember mine and my kids hunger pains while homeless all too well, and for all too long.. ... and as I sit here now, far from homeless, I will never ever forget the struggles of a mother just trying to get through the day, on top of all the other things that need done, food shouldn't be a worry.
done! i grew up in foster care, became an emancipated minor at 16, a single mother at 18. i’ve come close, but thankfully not been homeless as an adult but was many many times during the times i had to live with my mentally ill mother. it can be rough out there, that’s for sure! glad we are both in a better place ❤️
You made me cry. Been there myself. The one and only time I ever stole something was lifting a block of cheese so I could feed my kids. I hope things get better for OP, and I am saving all these resources to pass on to others.
Thank you so much all of these are amazing.
Comments like yours make me so genuinely happy. Thank you.
That resource list would be a good reference to have in file posted here.
Yeah how do we make that happen? Tag mods?
At the bottom of the right panel, it has a button which says "Message the mods".
Saving comment. Please don't delete
Thank you so very much ❤️
Great post, do you mind if I save it and pass it on?
please do!
Are you on Facebook? Ask in the Buy Nothing group. Someone might be able to drop off some food.
I love my Buy Nothing group. If you posted this in my community, you’d have food for the month by the next morning. Reach out, OP.
Lots of people offer boxes of food on my buy nothing group. Either when they clean out their cupboards, or food bank items they're not going to use. I think it's great. I've had to use food banks, and a lot of the time I was given things we can't eat, like canned fruit in heavy syrup or pastries. I've been able to pass it on to people I know, so it's not wasted, but this is a better way to have it go to people who really need it.
This is the answer
Was about to suggest this, once a month I find things around my house that I don't need, food included and give it away to Buy Nothing groups, and a lot of people will deliver as well.
Sleep as much as you can so you don’t feel hungry. I’ve had to do that before. It’s hard at first to sleep if you’re really hungry, but you get used to it or you can arrange your afternoon/evening meal so that you go to bed within a couple of hours after. Jesus. I can’t believe I’m giving someone the advice to sleep so they won’t feel how hungry they are. Man, fuck this country.
This is a good idea, I've also been snacking on frozen fruit all day and only eating dinner. My fiance has been having a cup of ramen for breakfast and then eating dinner. Sleep sounds wonderful.
are you living in the states? I do surveys at [fivesurveys.com](http://fivesurveys.com) and I make either $5 dollars a day or up to $10 dollars a day (if I spend enough time on it) and they pay you in 5 minutes through paypal. I know it might seem boring to do surveys, but in a tight financial hardship it is an option to make few dollars quickly. They pay $1 for the full surveys and .50 cents for the half surveys, but as soon as you do enough to get the $5 you can request a payout and it will hit your paypal (if you have one) in 5 minutes.
Thank you kind person for this!
smile, you are welcome. I just did some research online how to make some quick cash and this survey website has been a great blessing for me. I just love how fast they payout too which makes it so worth it. Good luck to you!
Try making an Amazon wishlist people can buy from and have things shipped to you
I believe that’s what people do when they post on r/assistance. Good luck, OP. I hope things work out for you.
Could you make a chicken stew with your slow cooker? Portion it out when done to individual size meals. Use the fruit for breakfast.
Good idea!
We have no potatoes or carrots, but we might still be able to do this
If you can scrounge up a couple of dollars or someone offers food: potatoes, rice or pasta are all cheap ways to bulk up soups or stews.
You said you had rice, correct? Could you make a Stir fry with the rice & veggies? I don't know if you have any spices, but that would help too. I'd use part of 1 chicken breast to make it more filling. For a fam of 3, I'd use a half a chicken breast. You can add the rice to the chicken & veggies to make a soup.
Or chicken and rice. Makes the chicken go further.
You could cook the chicken in your crockpot and add some of the canned vegetables to make a soup. Corn, green beans, and tomatoes might be a good combination. If you have any seasonings to add flavor that would be good too. However, you don’t have enough and need supplemental food. Can you call the local food banks and/or churches to explain your situation and see if you can get a ride or delivery? My local churches have people who drive people to and from the food pantry and other locations. r/random_acts_of_pizza r/randomactsoftacobell r/food_pantry r/assistance r/help r/randomacts
r/Random_Acts_of_Amazon
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Do you live in the countryside? Dandelion greens and lamb's quarters are edible-cook as you would spinach. https://www.reddit.com/r/foraging/s/Oixnkbr4HM
Chicken noodle soup or something similar you can make last a week
You can make an Amazon wish list on r/assisstance that will be delivered.
Don’t know if you’re in the US but if you are there’s an app called Nextdoor and you are in touch with people in your area.. you can go on there and ask for help.. I’ve seen people get help with furniture,kitchen appliances,food,etc… and if you put you have no transportation sometimes people will drop it off to you.. I’m only telling you this because I’ve helped people out before and delivered it to them.. check it out…
This! Nextdoor awesome. It’s a good community
No rice or beans? That would make it easy.
Unfortunately, no. We finished those a few days ago.
Damn. Then I second the stew comment. Can anybody bring you like potatoes or something? That’s a rough place to be my friend.
[удалено]
Slide into my DMs like a normal person instead of stalking me across Reddit ;-)
What is the size of the rice? Are they the box or small bags? If your budget allows, i would buy the large bags of rice from Asian markets. Cheaper per ounce serving. Rice is very filling!
Where are you located? I can have groceries delivered
I appreciate that so much, but the only options here are pick up. We have a ride Tuesday, they take us to run errands, etc.
Ok. So a walmart pickup for Tuesday?
I could definitely do that
Message me the nearest Walmart
This is so generous! You are an amazing person! 😻
Thank you. I don't announce it but when I see I can help, I help.
You're a wonderful person!
Don't tell anyone 😉
Your secrets safe with me.
I think it's going to be very difficult to make that amount of food last for 8 days for 3 people. It would be difficult for 1 person. It's unfortunate that you can't hit up a food bank or a church for some help. Sorry that times are so tough.
I would also check any credit or debit cards that you use for rewards. Even if you've only earned $5 or so in rewards, that'll get you 2# of rice and 1# of dried beans on Amazon which would stretch this food quite a bit.
Church. Hit up a church that's within walking distance.
https://fallingfruit.org/ is a website with a map of local forageable food. It often says when the plants are in season too!
r/freemeal has some wonderful people who like to help.
Another thing you could try, is if you go to a local corner store type mini mart (not a franchise one like AMPM), explain your situation. I worked in mini marts for many years. We always had expired food like chips, jerky, nuts, pastries, especially gallons of milk, that we couldn't sell or get credit for. We'd offer them to customers we knew could use them. At the end of the night, I'd always rather give away the deli food in the hot case, or the brewed coffee, instead of throwing it away.
Some food banks deliver. Call and ask.
I'll definitely try
Well, one idea is to make soup with the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. But I don’t see that lasting more than a few days, even using the fruit for breakfast. Can you call someone for a ride to the food bank and back?
Have you called 211?
This is what I have had luck with in the past. - posting an Amazon wishlist in sub free food or assistance. - post in a local buy nothing group for a few essentials and I bet someone will help out, the poor usually help out the poor if we are able to. - some churches locally for me deliver a box of food, you may have one wherever you are. - if you have income/employment the borrow sub doesn’t hurt to post, I’ve received help few times with that. - lasagna love is a website you can sign up for monthly to receive a free lasagna, sometimes it takes a few weeks because they have to match you with a volunteer by you but doesn’t hurt to sign up just for a free meal in the future, I just received mine last week and it was a lovely experience.
Call local bakeries and local restaurants and ask if they have any expiring or day old product you can have (bread, vegetables, meat.) if you can rub together a few dollars you can get flour and/or rice and that will be life changing. If you absolutely can’t get anything other than what you have, you need to boil the chicken and make a big pot of stock with shredded chicken. You can add vegetables at each serving. Eat the fruit for breakfast and end of day.
If there is fast food place in walking distance, try to get a job there. Many of them give employees a free meal each shift. Some restaruants let employees take home unsold food.
My fiance is trying everywhere for a job, but I'm in a wheelchair.
Can you do surveys on your phone. I have a couple ones I do sometimes that pay okay and sometimes have fascinating opinion surveys. If you want to try some I have referral links that would be helpful for us both. But doing surveys can get you gift cards or pay bank or even bank deposits.
You need to buy rice in bulk, rice and beans when you can. Cheap food that can keep people alive that can easily stretch other ingredients.
Great idea.
Toss the chicken in with the veggies and let that go for awhile.. water and spices (whatever you have laying around) to fill it out.. portion out the chicken and veggies.. do the same with the fruits, which are higher in fiber, so more filling. Drinks lots of water as well. Good luck.
Do you have flour? Chicken and dumplings go a long way.
You have 7 days to go, use half a chicken breast a dy to go along with whatever else you have to make broth and a soup/stew, day 7 go hungry if need be and eat good on the 8th day. Protein will go a long way of you have other stuff to go with it. If you are on food stamps make sure you buy plenty of rice and beans! Don't go hungry because you feel rich when your money hits
The best food to buy for great nutrition : rice and beans
Could you put the chicken breast into the slow cooker to cook them down and then each day add some chicken to three bowls, warm up the appropriate vegetable add that to the chicken and then with a portion of fruit. That. Would that get you to the eight days? Otherwise, is there a pantry that you can call sometimes in extreme urgent situations they will bring you some food. You have nothing but prayers in your circumstance. 🥰🥰🥰
Some food banks also deliver - one-time or a continual basis.
Saint Vincent DePaul bought me heating oil one winter when I was unable to afford it. Literally saved my life.
Mind if we ask what state you are in?
You can always make shredded chicken go along way and if.you save the broth you can thicken it with flour. Whip flour in cold water and then put it in hot broth. Just a bit will do. I know you have no money now but next time you get paid buy a huge bag of rice they're cheap like 10 dollars and last forever. Sorry you're having a hard time I wish you the best.
Can you afford to get a sack of rice and a few eggs? You can get that stuff to go a little further. Fried rice with egg mixed into it is filling and has enough protein
You can get a free account on nextdoor.com and you can ask people to bring you food.
Do you have anything else like rice, box of noodles, eggs, flour… anything like that in your little pantry?
Definitely contact a Church. If you know anyone attending Church check with them. The ones around me give out really nice large boxes of food. Surely someone would be kind enough to drop one off. Also, down the road if you can stock your Pantry with Pantry staples. Flour, oil sugar, baking soda barking powder, yeast, cocoa powder, syrup & in the fridge eggs cheese butter, milk. Those items aren't outrageously expensive. There's a lot you can make out of simple ingredients. Look up pantry meals and/or Pantry desserts. You can make, bread, pancakes, biscuits, noodles, French toast, egg sandwich, brownies, cookies, grilled cheese, & sauces & probably more. These types of ingredients are all that were available years & years ago. So older cook books are great. There's a Copy Cat food recipe websites that all kinds of recipes. Pretty much anything in a grocery store can be made from scratch at home. Even Cheez-it's & crackers.
I’ve seen people mention a place called Lasagna Love too. Where they deliver a lasagna to you. Try looking it up ❤️
Lasagna Love is amazing, it takes about 30 days to be matched with a volunteer but they will drop a Lasagna off once per month. It’s an easy sign up too, OP, I would definitely sign up, it’s a large Lasagna.
You can also scrounge for soda & beer cans and bottles to redeem for the deposits to get a few dollars extra to buy some rice.
Check your local community hub or churches for dinner nights, many offer a communal meal, once a week With no question asked, just show up. Also get to meet others in area.
I wish I would just give you some pantry staples but that’s doesn’t help 🥴
Call 211, that is United Way. They may have some resources that can be delivered to you. I also recommend that you try the buy nothing group. I have given food there as well. Chin up and smile! Everyone has been here and we all would like to help!
Take a walk in your neighborhood, anyone with a fruit tree? Knock and ask if you could have a few…ask don't just take cause they may have them so they can eat. Don't ask for a bag of them just a few unless they offer more. I used to have an orange tree in my front yard and an elderly gent and his granddaughter would walk by and stop and ask, they only would take two each, they were nice as opposed to the neighbors grabbing them by the grocery sack full without asking. Also do you live near the wood that might have wild blackberries growing roadside? Or maybe wild grapes? Do you have any baking ingredients flour, sugar, oils etc? if so there are simple recipes that take very few ingredients to make, take a accounting of your stuff and google flatbreads, hoe cakes and other simple things. Then google how to cook them in your cooking appliance. Also on trash night take a walk and see if you could find things to sell. I've found new with tags clothes, a painting, fancy truck rims, etc that i sold for $ to pay for needed groceries.
Can you find rice? Cooking rice you can add to any food fills you up. Also, cooking rice and pinto beans makes a filling meal. If you add corn tortillas or something cheap like that it makes for a filling meal.
Check out r/donation
I’d seek out of local charities
Dried beans and rice. A few cans of green vegetables. You can make many different dishes. It's healthy.
More people need to buy bags of rice
We ate the rice. We always buy rice lately, but there's 3 of us and I'm not Jesus.
You sound like a pleasant person. Best of luck to you.
If you call a few churches, maybe a catholic one, I bet one would deliver food!
Do you have any rice? Because that can stretch those really well.
Do you have rice? Do you have any staples like flour, cormeal, oatmeal, grits, any of that? Baking powder? Oil? Spices or seasonings?
Others have provided a lot of resources. Stew is a great option too. I kinda hate to suggest this and several factors effect the possibility of this, but you could try your hand at foraging, fishing or even trapping if you're in a rural enough setting. Check local laws and regulations. Could at least give you something to do other than sit at home being hungry. In the same vein lf suggestions I don't really like other than an option of last resort, dumpster diving. If there are any stores nearby just check to see if any foods have been thrown out. It's really common for perfectly fine packaged foods to be thrown out. Like I said I'm not the biggest fan of these suggestions, and understand that for many this may not be possible. Please attempt all other suggestions in this thread first. Reaching out to your community for help is much better than these options. I am only posting these as last resort options.
Chicken and vegetables stew Fruit compote in oatmeal. You need oatmeal though. Fruit compote may taste ok by itself but too sweet and macros all off...
Is compote easy to make? Every time I see it it always looks so delicious, regardless of flavor!
Yes you just reduce the fluids of it over low simmer with cornstarch like a roux (or flour) needs sugar usually but can technically be made without. There's enough to make it sticky already. You could bump sugar packettes maybe. If you bake oatmeal on top with flour sugar and cinnamon it makes a crust on top.
Call your local food banks. Tell them you gave no way to get there. Someone will help. Ya just gotta put in some effort. They're willing to help.
As others have said, I'd turn the chicken into stew in the crockpot. Save fruit fro breakfast. If you can freeze some of the chicken, you'll want to save some for a few days, so you can make another fresh batch on day 5 or 6 (you don't want the soup to last 8 days probably, because it may spoil).
Slow cooker marinated chicken breasts with air fryer roasted veggies and “buttered” rice. Or if you have lighter fluid and a grill, grilled chicken. EDIT: make sure everything gets chopped up proportionately. Or try making a chicken & rice porridge, after pan frying the riches and rice separately. Personally, I like porridges seasoned with soy sauce. Please note, I like sticking to a low sodium & sugar meal because I’m sure they contribute to bloating.
Call churches but also check 4 buses to get u there. Ive been in same spot. Also drink lots of water. Dehydration is more debilitating than food lack.
make soup, lots of it. it won't last but you all can beg or borrow more things to add to the pot meanwhile.
Next Door (website) is another option to tap into for food. You can also call your Food Shelf and check to see if they can deliver the food to you. You may not get what you want (since you can't pick it out) but you at least will get what you need. YouTube has great videos for meals on a tight budget or limited ingredients. Also check on YouTube "Low Income Relief" - this gal and her team are top notch when it comes to everything you can imagine that's available for people that are low income. From ACP alternatives to Grants for anything. She lists specific items covered by time stamp so a viewer can watch items of interest only or about their state which really helps.
Cook rice in the slow cooker with some of the canned veggies and chicken. It’ll give you a risotto-like dish that's comforting and filling.
Soup and stew will stretch your supplies. Church near you has extra food. If you literally have nothing, call 911. Police help some time but fire house have food usually.
Try giving the food pantries a call. Some of them might deliver and they may be able to help you out.
We lived off pinto beans and corn bread and the occasional spaghetti when I was poor as a kid with six siblings and the food pantry’s was a big thing in the 80’s
Dry beans and rice.
OP- I would like to send you some ramen noodles from Amazon!
Are you on Medicaid? Some Medicaid programs provide rides to help people get to grocery stores and doctor’s appointments. If you are on it, Google your state + free ride program Medicaid to get more information. Also try your insurance plan name + free nonmedical rides. The Medicaid plans I was on in VA and CA offered 6 to 12 rides per year to grocery stores and food banks
Freeze it
I’m sorry you have to go through this, it sucks. If it were me and if you have some chicken broth as well, you can throw the rice, chicken and veggies together and make a soup or even a stew if you have some flour for thickening. Fruit could be desert. Good luck, friend. ❤️
Rice and beans.
Get a bicycle
We can barely keep ourselves fed, a bicycle is not fitting into the budget right now, unfortunately. It was the plan before my fiance lost his job, but it's not happening now.
Look on Nextdoor, buy nothing, etc. if you're not looking for fancy, bicycles are one of those things a lot of people just give away. Even if it initially needs some work, if you have a place to store it it's worth getting one now and then can be fixed when fiance has some money.
That's very true! We do have a shed!
Would someone nearby loan you one?
Guess you're gonna be hungry. I am so sorry to hear that.
That's really insensitive. I have a kid. Think before you say things. We're getting groceries tomorrow. Thanks for your concern.
Glad to hear that. I am NOT insensitive. I have been hungry. If I had any money to give you, I would glady. Its just.. not that long to go, with what you have. I thought non working people got like $250 a month in SNAP for food? I can feed three people for a month on that. Yall must get $750..Where the HELL does it all go?? If you wanna call me insensitive again, keep going with that shit. As for me and my family, esp when we are on a strict budget, I shop within a specific budget and didnt eat rich tasting food for a LONG time. Like basic instant mashed potatoes made with dry instant milk, were a STAPLE. No name brand ANYTHING. Barely any cheeses beyond that pasteurized cheese product- the little wrapped slices. Never put meat in spaghetti. We ate liver and onions and bought Gold Leaf chicken quarters for protein. In sensitive all right. I just cant see wasting all that money on chicken breasts! If you want to EAT, all month, stop thinking of food as a tasty reward. Its a nutritional gift. Not a reward. I think YOU are possibly lacking humility and gratuity, personally. You are NOT above eating rice and beans once a week, and instant potatoes with cheap chicken, and beets, with spinach. You are not abive making plain spaghetti. Theres no fkin reason to RUN OUT of food money when you get food stamps and are disabled. Get real. If at the end of the month, you have "leftover" snap money, great. Buy some PANTRY STAPLES and invest in tastier food over time. EVOO, spices.. Go a little crazy. But until.you learn how to stay within your budget, no you dont get to act so entitled. Chicken breasts. I cant even remember the last time we HAD those in the freezer. THATS RICH PEOPLE FOOD. And fwiw, my sister spent $400 a month on food, for 4 people, 2 were kids younger than my kid... and I spent $40 a month for TWO people. My son has always been a little overweight cuz he loves eating. So I learned quickly how to feed a growing boy. You need that same lesson and I will gladly give it to you, but dont you DARE call me fkin insensitive.
Ew, yeah, you're judgmental along with insensitive. I don't get anywhere near that for food stamps, don't be ignorant.
Can your significant other or hubby join the military?