please help! food and money...

[lilnet]

Hi Y'all.

I have a friend of a friend who is working class and gets 159 dollars a month for food from the government.

I made her a raw vegan pie the other day, and she really really enjoyed it.

How can she do this for herself, though, when nuts are expensive?

Does anyone have any ideas how she economize to eat more raw foods?

Does anyone have recipes for nut free pie crusts?

I am totally trying to figure out how someone who does not have a lot of money can eat nutritious and healthy meals.

I know if our government would just start supporting/subsidizing healthy food, we would be fine, but until then, I want to find a way she can eat this way!

Thank you!!

[Veganforlife]

I would suggest she contact her local grocery store and see about getting "older" produce for a reduced cost.
Also how about sunflower seeds as opposed to nuts - they are cheaper. I'm sure others will have some ideas.
Also she could check w/local farmers - it may not be organic, but it's still not the crappy foods she is probably eating. How is she affording them? I'm not doubting you or her, but just I see a lot of folks that eat fast foods, which are WAY expensive and if they can afford that, then they certainly can afford wholesome, fresh, living foods.
Where there is a will, there is a way.
She may not eat pies and the "luxuries" of raw food right off, but she can eat fresh and alive foods.

At any age, at any level...

[lilnet]

yes, true true. thanks for the message. but aren't fast foods generally less expensive?

[Veganforlife]

I don't know I don't and haven't ever bought any like big macs for example. BUT for what I think a meal would cost - let's say 3 bucks? Think of all the fruit I could get. If grapes are 99 cents a pound!!! Or a bag of oranges or how many greens I could get...
AND then there's your health that after eating all that fast food - the medical bills/meds - how expensive THAT is...
so no - I'd say no - fast (so-called) food is way more expensive...

[GlimR]

$40.00/week for one person can buy a lot of staple fruits and veggies...a bottle of EV olive oil lasts a long time. She will have to concentrate of eating very simply but that is not a bad thing health wise at all. Sunflower seeds are cheap and can be used to make cheese, crackers, dips, etc...as well as adding nourishing fats to salads, etc...sesame seeds are pretty cheap too and can be used to make tahini, dressings and seed milk.
Fruits and greens supplimented by the oils and seeds is a very nourishing way of eating. She can plan around what's on sale each week too. Wishing her the best...you're a good friend to help her out~

[firefaery]

The first couple of weeks might be aa bit on the high side (maybe around $75?) as she stocks up on staples. Also remember it is VERY common to eat far more in the very beginning as your body adjusts. In the long run raw can be very economical. I mean, you can live on greens smoothies and they can be super cheap especially if you forage!

[lilnet]

Thanks for all the responses...very helpful!!

She lives in Maine, so fresh fruit and veggies may be a bit more expensive...grapes are 2.99 a pound.

But, it is true that you for 3 or 4 dollars, you can buy a lot of greens!

[barose]

I would suggest she contact her local grocery store and see about getting "older" produce for a reduced cost.
Also how about sunflower seeds as opposed to nuts - they are cheaper. I'm sure others will have some ideas.
Also she could check w/local farmers - it may not be organic, but it's still not the crappy foods she is probably eating. How is she affording them? I'm not doubting you or her, but just I see a lot of folks that eat fast foods, which are WAY expensive and if they can afford that, then they certainly can afford wholesome, fresh, living foods.
Where there is a will, there is a way.
She may not eat pies and the "luxuries" of raw food right off, but she can eat fresh and alive foods.

I dont get it, why do you assume she is eating fast food? Something in the OP's post?

[Veganforlife]

I'm not assuming that at all. It was merely a statement, just a fact.

[Revvell]

I know if our government would just start supporting/subsidizing healthy food, we would be fine, but until then, I want to find a way she can eat this way!



If "our government" did that, who do you think would pay? You ready to pay higher taxes to subsidize people? I think not. Many complain about taxes now. IF "the government" chooses to involve itself in our "health" issues, they also have the "right" to tell us who to see, when, etc. I doubt anyone here is willing to pay 50% of their earned income to pay for those who don't/can't work; 25% sales tax and 300% tax on a car. Like in Denmark, many of us would be riding bicycles and taking public transportation because we couldn't afford to live.

Personally, I think it's better for people to see movies such as "Eating", read "The China Study" and start taking care of their own health.

As for you friend, is there any way she can create more income? What skills does she have she can use to do so? The issue here isn't having enough money, it's about creating more. (Obviously I don't know the whole situation yet, you say "working class". Not sure what that means other than she can work and there's possibility of creating more income. I grew up on social security. No one even suggested to my mother that she could create more income.)

I agree with those here ~ get locally grown produce. If there's a farmers' market nearby, go close to closing time. They'll often reduce prices so they don't have to pack. Make a deal with the produce manager at the store. They throw NOTHING out... (she can)... one can always use wilted lettuce and slightly damaged tomatoes... etc.

Keep it simple... no more pies... for now.

[JulesRules]

I understand the concern. I have lived in many places in the US and produce is less than optimal and expensive in some places. Organics are even more expensive if buying in HFS or even grocery. I can see that it could be much less expensive to buy overprocessed, but readily available cooked foods in cans, breads, some meats...etc...They go on sale in stores for incredible low prices sometimes.

If I had to live on $150 a month for food, I would really have to plan it out...

I think the suggestions above are great. I do think it will take extra effort, especially at the beginning to begin to look for the specials at the stores. And keeping it simple will help. If she needs to have more variety it might be helpful to read as many recipes as possible, to get an idea about what she can do with some produce and seeds that perhaps she has not considered, so she can keep an eye out for specials for those items

This change in focus does not happen automatically, so perhaps she could practice with a transition period where she gradually becomes primarily raw.


I wish you and your friend great luck...you are a great friend to help her.

[Zella Juice]

I have one green smoothie in the morning and I am not hungry until 2:00 or later. Then I eat a salad or raw pizza or something easy (cause I am busy and poor, bad combo :p ). Then I have another raw meal at night. Sometimes I just have the smoothie and one raw meal for the day. The stuff is so filling as opposed to cooked food that tricks you and makes you keep eating well after being full.

I spent so much money on cooked food. Cause I couldn't stop eating it. I would go into the grocery store for a soup from the deli and see the muffins there in the bakery and pick up a box of four. Then stuff my face with muffins on the ride home from work. I spent just as much or more on cooked food. Not to mention I was so unhealthy that I missed more work and had to pay for more doctor visits for me and my family.

People always say raw is more expensive. But it really have to do with how resourceful you are. Because I believe they are the same. People buy those frozen dinners and they are so expensive for such a small amount.

My 7 year old son's dinner last night was Green Smoothie, Carrots dipped in raw ranch, and a Tomato. That's the cheapest dinner and full of so many nutrients. And he was happy and satisfied.

People just need excuses not to eat raw. It scary to them to even think of eating differently. Food is such a comfort to most of us. It makes us feel good and satisfied in a world full of uncertainty. People don't think they can get that same comfort from raw food. Even if they do try a tasty raw pie. They still worry about getting rid of their cooked favorites.

I am poor but I am determined to eat healthy. I am determined to feed my family healthy food.

There are dehydrators, juicers and blenders for cheap on craigslist. I wish I would have known when I was looking for them. But I did do pretty good on ebay. I sold some of my old stuff on ebay to help me pay for it. I borrowed money from family and paid them back in payments.

As far as nuts being expensive. I searched high and low for the cheapest price. There are some cheaper prices out there if you do some searching. But if I can't afford them...I go for the sunflower seeds. You can make cheese and milk out of seeds too. Pumpkin seeds are cheaper too. Also, buckwheat is cheap. I use that for granola for cereal and also it goes in the pizza crust. It's like less than a dollar a pound.

You can even make milk from cantaloupe seeds. And that's the part we throw out. I think that's pretty economical to buy a fruit that produces a quart or so of milk.

I take it back...I think raw food is LESS expensive. I would like to take the Supermarket sweep challenge. My food would be less expensive and I would check out faster because I only would be shopping in the produce section & the bulk section. I don't have to stop and read labels because everything I am eating is NOT prepackaged and processed.

YAY RAW!

[barose]

I think the suggestions are great, but I just hope she doesn't have an appetite like mine because a green smoothie only last me until 10:00 AM. Thankfully greens are cheap where I live, but overall the amount of food that it takes for me to keep from stumbling around from being lightheaded (per day) is staggering. I agree with Revvell in terms of finding a more long-term solution to her financial problem.

[Veganforlife]

How about foraging? Learning what is growing for free?

[mulch]

since she is poor
why not help her to just increase her raw intake
being broke and hungry after eating a "healthy" salad
and some smoothies may not have a lasting impression
on this friend of yours
my suggestion is to gradually increase her greens
and if she is not vegetarian/vegan, help her to do that
159 bucks will not cut it in raw land
i find it hard to believe it is really cutting it in SAD world
but with ramen noodles being under 50 cents,koolaid, soda , sugar and hotdogs being ridiculously cheap
i can see how 159 bucks can feed someone
most folks on foodstamps do other things to generate cash
beans and rice is always ultra cheap and very filling
i understand that everyone likes to suggest farmer's markets etc but those are not always easily available to people.
most people aren't savvy enough to make deals with farmers or have a supportive natural food network initially
frozen produce is always on sale and could definitely fit in the tight budget.
i found a bag of spinach, corn, peas and okra for a buck a bag

[Revvell]

i understand that everyone likes to suggest farmer's markets etc but those are not always easily available to people.
I repeat, Ifthere's a farmers' market nearby, go close to closing time. They'll often reduce prices so they don't have to pack.



most people aren't savvy enough to make deals with farmers or have a supportive natural food network initially


Is that really true? MOST people? It's a learned skill for some yet IF someone is hungry enough AND wants to feed themselves, they'll do it. I don't put that people are less than they are. IF they want to create more income, they'll find a way to do it. IF in the meantime, they want to eat healthier, they'll find a way to do it.

My teacher saw more in me than I ever saw in myself for awhile. I like to do the same with people. This is one saying which I find to be true: "Where there's a will, there's a way".

[lilnet]

Thank you so much for all the time you all have put in sharing with me.

This woman is in her 60s, and she is getting money from the government (EBT), and she is living in small town in Maine, so right now, her options are not as big as others and the accessibility is not as great.


Zella Juice, you offer some great suggestions, thanks!

[Veganforlife]

I would suggest she contact her local grocery store and see about getting "older" produce for a reduced cost.
Also how about sunflower seeds as opposed to nuts - they are cheaper. I'm sure others will have some ideas.
Also she could check w/local farmers - it may not be organic, but it's still not the crappy foods she is probably eating. How is she affording them? I'm not doubting you or her, but just I see a lot of folks that eat fast foods, which are WAY expensive and if they can afford that, then they certainly can afford wholesome, fresh, living foods.
Where there is a will, there is a way.
She may not eat pies and the "luxuries" of raw food right off, but she can eat fresh and alive foods.

At any age, at any level...

I truly believe no matter what our circumstances if one truly wants to better themselves - they can. I did. I was a struggling, STRUGGLING single Mom w/two little ones and I made it. That was 30 some years ago. There's a lot more out there now available...

[EZ rider]

There was a thread here not to long ago about foraging. Thats where the food is raw and its free for the picking. Dandelions are one example of this. Foraging is the best deal on the planet and is available to everybody.

[Evie]

My mom lives in a small coastal town in Maine. I can relate to the challenge to eat healthy there. My mom had two heartattacks last spring. I went to see her for a couple of weeks while she was on the path to recovery. I took charge of her diet while with her. I wanted her to be as raw as possible.

It was an eye opening experience that causes me to be empathetic to your friends challange. My mom gets help with food from the governement for an amount similar to your friends. Let me tell you, she only has two grocery stores to chose from. Both major chain stores with high prices. There is a health food store...but there prices were higher and they do not participate in the goverenment program. So we could not use her card there.

My goal was to feed her organitic and raw. But organtic produce in her area is priced as if it were gold and there is little of it. The regular produce is high priced. I shopped sales and tried to stretch the funds. It was very hard. I could not squeeze a whole month out of the funds for her. And I am a master bargain shopper.

I did notice one could eat cooked unhealthy easily though. Frozen pizzas for 1.00, white bread on sale for 99cents, raman 10/ 1.00, pasta for around 1.00 for 16 oz. It relly bothered me to know that type of food is being made accessable while produce was not.

I looked for programs to help her. I found a local farmer who gives elderly people 60.00 credit at his farmstand during the summer. This really helped her this summer. Other than that the only other programs offered cooked and trashy food. Meals on Wheel was set up for her. WHen I called to request vegetarian they were rude. They stated they could not cater a diet for her. So when she gets a rare salad it is full of meat and dressing. Which she refuses to eat. The government will provide excess commodities to the poor elderly in form of cheese, milk, meat and beans.

My point being is that it is a challenge for an elderly person on a strict budget to eat 100% raw in Maine -expecially if they are in a small town. The programs out there to help them whether government or privately funded, help with providing poor nutrintional quality foods.

I was suprised at the tone in some of the responses. As the saying goes... You need to walk a mile in someone else shoes before you can truly understand them.

[barose]

This woman is in her 60s, and she is getting money from the government (EBT), and she is living in small town in Maine, so right now, her options are not as big as others and the accessibility is not as great.


In that case, I take back what I said in my previous post (the last part):

I agree with Revvell in terms of finding a more long-term solution to her financial problem.

She may not have the same choices I do at my age.

I think Evie's post is right on, especially the very last sentence.

[Frecs]

If "our government" did that, who do you think would pay? You ready to pay higher taxes to subsidize people? I think not. Many complain about taxes now. IF "the government" chooses to involve itself in our "health" issues, they also have the "right" to tell us who to see, when, etc. I doubt anyone here is willing to pay 50% of their earned income to pay for those who don't/can't work; 25% sales tax and 300% tax on a car. Like in Denmark, many of us would be riding bicycles and taking public transportation because we couldn't afford to live.



Hate to tell you this, but "our government" already involves itself in our "health" issues! Familiar with the Food Pyramid? USDA...with an eye on what will benefit agribusiness of course...telling us how to "eat healthy". The government also subsidies, quite heavily in fact, the growing of corn, other grains, dairy, sugar, etc. Funny thing, though, they don't subsidize produce...why do you suppose that is?

For an interesting perspective on the workings of "our government" pertaining to "our health issues" read "Food Politics" and/or "The Omnivore's Dilemma".

[We'd be a healthier country if 50% of us commuted by bicycle. I would if it didn't mean riding on a major highway.]

[codajess]

I think it's great that she's interested in raw.

However it's much easier for someone to say "I could do this" when someone is preparing their food for them ;) (i.e. the pie) I know I'd be raw forever if I had someone make all my food for me at all times. :p it's harder when you have to do it for yourself.

Also, things like dehydrators, blenders, juicers, the more expensive foods like nuts, tropical fruits (depending where you live) are raw luxuries. They aren't necessities.

Granted, they tend to help a lot of us get through our beginning phases, but they're still luxuries. She may have to skip those luxuries if she wants to get into raw but can't afford them, and jump right into the simpler way of eating.

Whatever she does, I wish her luck. :)

[River Mom]

How do you make milk from cantaloupe seeds?
River Mom

[mulch]

correct me if i am wrong
the same way you make almond milk
i wonder how many it would take
if someone does this, please tell us what it tastes like

[Revvell]

Well, at this point they can "suggest " what is good.. i.e. pyramid yet, we still have the freedom, at this time, to do as we wish. Actually, I don't pay much attention to it so I really don't even know what the "pyramid" even looks like... I create my own. :)



Hate to tell you this, but "our government" already involves itself in our "health" issues! Familiar with the Food Pyramid? USDA...with an eye on what will benefit agribusiness of course...telling us how to "eat healthy". The government also subsidies, quite heavily in fact, the growing of corn, other grains, dairy, sugar, etc. Funny thing, though, they don't subsidize produce...why do you suppose that is?

For an interesting perspective on the workings of "our government" pertaining to "our health issues" read "Food Politics" and/or "The Omnivore's Dilemma".

[We'd be a healthier country if 50% of us commuted by bicycle. I would if it didn't mean riding on a major highway.]

[Lady Green Jeans]

This is a really good thread to read for perspective. Not a lot of disposable income right now for "perks" in my raw food diet. Have already invested in nuts and have all the equipment to prepare my meals, so that is a plus. Reading throuhg the posts got me thinking of how I can cut some of the costs around eating raw--especially going into the winter months when produce is not necessarily at its peak or in great abundance.

To cut costs, I would definately hit the farmers market at closing. Family saying I like is "looks better in my pocket" is so true.

Sprouting is also a great way to get fantastic nutrition for pennies a serving.

Scanning the weekly grocery ads for whatever produce is on special that week and incorporating those items in your weekly menu planning as much as possible.

Check into CSA if avialable in your area. Oftentimes it is quite a good deal.

Shop at stores with a "reduced or day old" discount area and use it.

Buy stuff on super sale from any of the above and freeze what you can't use for a later date.

Plant a small garden, raised bed garden or container garden. Even just growing herbs is a great cost savings.

Buying lesser priced seeds over nuts provides the same nutrition--more bang for the buck so to speak.

I am determined to find ways to personally save as this is the best way of eating I've found. Know it can be doable.

[cashewy]

I know winter is coming in Maine but depending on her living situation she could get a garden going...or a least start planning for next year.

teach a girl to grow her own...she'll eat cheap forever....the initial investment can seem huge but the payback is amazing....two little bean seeds and a squash plant and she will be in the land of abundance...

last summer I made my own greenhouse on the back porch of my ghetto apartment out of random windows I found in an alley and wood from a free pile at the lumber yard

bought some nice dirt 3-4 dollars a bag and some seed... from August to December I ate amazing oraganic food from home

this year I am trying fall crops of kale and cabbage, I'm off to a late start but we'll see

[blix]

[QUOTE=Zella Juice;328852]
My 7 year old son's dinner last night was Green Smoothie, Carrots dipped in raw ranch, and a Tomato. That's the cheapest dinner and full of so many nutrients. And he was happy and satisfied.

What is 'Raw Ranch'?????:confused: When you eat sunflower seed, make sure you eat flax seeds as well as the imbalance of omega 6 in sunflower seeds and the omega 3 in flax seeds will cause inflammation. Only when balanced will the inflammation go.:)

Also, sprouted seeds are good, they are cheaper than salad lettuces.

[exurb]

I have donated to and been involved in improving good food access to the poor.

If you can afford to buy some sprouting seeds for your friend, take her some canning/mason jars, with a piece of screen fit over the ring as a "lid", and show her how to sprout, that would be a great start. Then she could grow some of her own food for "free." This is especially useful in the winter in places like Maine where produce can get expensive.

Big bags of carrots, and at this time of year big bags of beets can come in handy. They can be grated, and in Maine I would imagine that is cheaper than salad greens in the winter. If there are any inexpensive apples around, they will also keep well in the fridge for a couple months. You can make a nice salad of beet-carrot-apple-ginger (or without the apples) very inexpensively, and it's more satisfying than some lighter salads.

I agree that it is VERY difficult to eat healthy food on a low budget, but there are some things that can be done to improve her diet.

Does she have access to a yard or anything where she lives that she could to a small garden?

I also say to recommend raw sunflower seeds for their cheapness and show her some things she can make with them. Also maybe sprouted green lentils?

There was a doctor a while ago who said if he can teach you five things to make to eat that are healthy, it could change your health, as we tend to make the same foods again and again. Maybe you could try to think of five things that are inexpensive that are satisfying and nutritious, and start from there.

[River Mom]

correct me if i am wrong
the same way you make almond milk
i wonder how many it would take
if someone does this, please tell us what it tastes like

HOW DO YOU MAKE ALMOND MILK?
I'VE NEVER MADE ANY MILK OF ANY KIND.
RIVER MOM

[Eva]

To make nut milks, you soak the nuts/seeds for a few hours or sometimes 12 (almonds for example), then toss them in the blender with one part nuts, 3-4 parts water. Then, you have two options: Drink it with a grainy taste (which is great with green smoothies, you'd never know), or use a nut milk bag to separate the liquid from the "pulp." I got a bag from Alissa's site, but you can just use a cotton bag of some kind if you'd like to be resourceful.

You can add some stevia, honey or agave to sweeten it up a bit if you want.

I've never used the cantaloupe seeds before, though. That's an interesting idea.

[River Mom]

Thanks.
I read that on a thread this AM. I've been waiting all day to do something with these seeds.
I'll post how it comes out.
RM

[River Mom]

Just made the cantaloupe milk.
The taste was pleasant.
I added a dab of honey, even before i tasted it. I wish I would have tasted it then added.

It had small bits of pop-corn like hulls in it... but straining would eliminate that.

I'd never call it milk, but it's delicious and I want to do drink some more.


River Mom

[luckitri]

Where I live the farmer markets are Waaaaaaay more expensive than the stores.

The produce guy at my local HFS told me that some of the greens prices go down later in the week. (He was new to our store). I have been watching and they do not go down.

I have lived in Maine (a long time ago) and was shocked that even in the heart of summer all I could get was iceberg lettuce, colorless tomatoes, potatoes and cabbage and onions.

[sciencegal]

I totally agree with Zella Juice; I work part time (30hrs/wk) and go to school part time and here in Southern California, it is extremely expensive to live! Food is definitely expensivebut I either go to a cheaper grocery store or I get the cheapest fruits/veggies on sale! At school I eat cheaply, a fruit salad and a piece of fruit or the veggie salad- I take out the half of egg:eek: ! I'm always looking for deals on produce and I also look at it like this: I am investing in my health and well being, and the doctors don't get my hard earned money anymore!!!;) Sciencegal:D

[barose]

I've never seen produce on sale, except at the farmers market.

[Lady Green Jeans]

sciencegal--where are you in Southern Cal--maybe can stear you to some farmers markets or at least better and less expensive raw food/organic options

[Frecs]

Well, at this point they can "suggest " what is good.. i.e. pyramid yet, we still have the freedom, at this time, to do as we wish. Actually, I don't pay much attention to it so I really don't even know what the "pyramid" even looks like... I create my own. :)

They have a bit more influence than just "suggesting"... sure, folks with the available money and the sense to see how the government and agribusiness are controlling the food available to consumers can choose to go against the flow. It's much harder for those with very limited means. Food stamps is based on "staples" such as rice, beans, potatoes, flour. Food pantries get donations from the USDA's excess commodities and donations from processed food companies (go to a food pantry and you will find candy bars but no apples).

Anyway, I think you might find "Food Politics" and "The Omnivores Dilemma" interesting reading to see just how much influence is welded by the government and agribusiness and processed food companies and how that influence is affecting the food choices of America and beyond. (And even how what the USDA subsidies affects greenhouse gases and animal welfare issues.)

[sciencegal]

Lady Green Jeans, I am in the Long Beach Area- I go to Long Beach City College. I know there is a
Farmers'Market downtown on Fridays but I have to work all day until 6:pm usually or if I get off earlier, I usually miss it.:( Sciencegal :D

[Revvell]

Anyway, I think you might find "Food Politics" and "The Omnivores Dilemma" interesting reading to see just how much influence is welded by the government and agribusiness and processed food companies and how that influence is affecting the food choices of America and beyond. (And even how what the USDA subsidies affects greenhouse gases and animal welfare issues.)

I doubt it. I don't watch t.v. so that's one way I am not influenced by agribusiness and processed food companies. Just that alone makes a big difference. As far as the rest? No time.... but thanks for your input.

Revvell

[Lady Green Jeans]

Sciencegal,

Thank you for the info on the farmer's market. Wish I could go there on Friday's--maybe will check it out on a day off.

[dalimeindacoconut]

Hooray for the 99cent Store! There is a great little fruit and vege section.

[dalimeindacoconut]

That's so funny Revvell. I stopped watching T.V. January 1st, 2007 as a test to see if I would get more done, before I knew anything about raw. Studying online was one of the benefits of me discovering raw. This was a direct result from not watching any tele at home!

[Frecs]

I doubt it. I don't watch t.v. so that's one way I am not influenced by agribusiness and processed food companies. Just that alone makes a big difference. As far as the rest? No time.... but thanks for your input.

Revvell

TV commericals are barely the tip of the iceberg. Oh, well, there are none so blind as them who will not see...

[Revvell]

TV commericals are barely the tip of the iceberg. Oh, well, there are none so blind as them who will not see...

That's sweet. Thanks.

You know what's interesting? People think others "should" be as concerned about their activism/interests as they are and when they aren't they insult or are insulted. There's not that much time in my life for everyone else's interests. I have my own.

Be well.

[Green Life]

yes, true true. thanks for the message. but aren't fast foods generally less expensive?

Anyttime you buy ready made food, whether it be frozen entress or dinners, packed meals, fast food, ect., generally, it will always be more expensive because you are basically paying to have your meals made for you. You are paying for your own personal chef. This is why it is cheaper to make your own meals from scratch. And healthier.

So, no, it's not cheaper to eat fast food because it's not food. It's cooked dead nothingness. Who wants to waste their money on nothing. I prefer to get something for every food dollar I spend. That's why I buy all raw food for myself. I hate wasting money!:)

Try using sunseed or the cheapest nuts or seeds for all your recipies. Try and use seasonings and spices, sweetners, ect. to kinda make the same flavor different in reicpies, so you're not tasting sunseeds in everything you make calling for nuts. See what I mean? Maybe by adding inexpensive veggies like onion and tomaotes, or banannas, which are pretty cheap if you find them in the overripe bins!!

You will also find raw food is more filling and satisfying. Therefore you won't be eating as much, thus saving money.

[Lay-Lay]

$159 is more then enough. I buy all organic for 2 people and 2 dogs and I spend about $350 a month.

When I used to not be organic I spent about $30-40 a week a raw food.

$159 is very doable.

Is your friend able to work? Is she working? What does she do? If she is serious about changing her lifestyle maybe she could go to work for a farmer, health food store, grocery store, farmers market, etc... where she would have a network and could watch for deals and maybe get additional discounts or free food for work.

The options are really endless.

[Green Life]

Our HFS has a hook up with the Mission here in our small town. Every week, the Mission's truck goes to the store and loads up the older food, yet still fresh and edible, and takes it to the Misson. I was literally shocked one day when I saw as I was shopping how much food they loaded onto that truck:eek: :eek: I just couldn't believe my eyes. Expensive food, too. And most of it was organic produce.

My sugggestion to you is maybe call the stores in your area and ask about that program...maybe they will hold some food aside, or guide you to the place where the donated food will be dropped off, and then you could talk with someone there about getting some donated food for free or for very little money.

Actually, come to think about it, 150.00 a month for food for one person isn't too bad...what was I thinking? There is alot one can buy for that. It would take some planning of course.

Anyway, if it isn't enough, hopefully some of these suggestions will help.:)

[violetsareblack]

Thank you so much for all the time you all have put in sharing with me.

This woman is in her 60s, and she is getting money from the government (EBT), and she is living in small town in Maine, so right now, her options are not as big as others and the accessibility is not as great.


Zella Juice, you offer some great suggestions, thanks!

EBT. Exactly! What some of these people do not understand is, you cannot always just shop ANYWHERE with EBT. While most grocery stores are now accepting EBT, a lot of farmer's markets will NOT take EBT, the one I go to does NOT! And you surely cannot buy FAST FOOD with it! Prepared food is NOT allowed on EBT. This includes McDonalds.

We get a HUGE HUGE HUGE amount of food stamps each month, however, with a family of 8, it is not much at all! I am LUCKY if the food stamps last 2 weeks! This month I tried to budget so we have "so much" a week and well, there's no money left for me to go splurge on tons of produce and nuts and seeds. And I bought CHEAP foods for my kids. Cheap vegan foods of course. Rice and beans are a staple. And I DO but produce on sale and it still gets expensive when you are feeding 8 people with it! One weeks worth of produce for 8 people can cost me a FORTUNE sometimes even with the "on sale" stuff. And my kids will NOT eat fruit that is too ripe. so forget that!

I notice this is a trend on these boards is, some people assume that the people who say they cannot afford raw simply MUST be splurging their food money on steaks and corvette's and expensive clothes. I can't remember the last time I had new clothes, I have never owned a new vehicle, I buy the cheapest vegan foods for my family and TRY to get my kids to eat as much produce as possible to what I can afford for 8 people and IF I have enough left over to make myself some gourmet raw dessert, I will, and I try to live off the simplest raw foods as I can.

/rant

sorry!