All posts filed under: Resources

This is the second blog in a series about budgeting. If you haven’t read the first post yet, please take some time to read Developing a Household Budget. This current[…] Read More

This is the third blog in a series about budgeting. If you haven’t read the first post yet, please take some time to read Developing a Household Budget and the[…] Read More

Are you ever surprised by how much you spent at the grocery store because you picked up a few extra items? If you don’t adjust your future shopping trips, you[…] Read More

Kids look forward to summer break as a time for fun! But for parents that rely on free or reduced school meals, the break can be a burden on the[…] Read More

The federal government has many food programs that help people of all ages receive adequate nutrition, but several programs are geared specifically to children. Public schools, non-profit private schools, and residential child-care institutions are eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program. These programs offer healthy meal options to children and aim to increase the availability of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains served at the school.

Grocery shopping on a tight budget can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to eat healthy. But there are many ways to manage your food dollars and still purchase a[…] Read More

The North Carolina Seniors Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides coupons to seniors that can be used to purchase fresh produce at local farmers’ markets.

None of us like wasting food. It’s like throwing money down the drain. Have you ever faced a power outage and wondered if the food in your refrigerator is safe to eat? You don’t want to throw away the week’s worth of groceries you just purchased, but you certainly don’t want to risk getting sick. Luckily there great food safety resources that can help us make good decisions when faced with a power outage.

Hopefully none of us will experience a devastating weather event, but would you be ready if a natural disaster or other emergency situation happened? Most of us have experienced power outages from a storm. These outages usually don’t last longer than a few hours. But would you be prepared if you had to go without water and electricity for a few days?

If you receive FNS/SNAP benefits, then you may qualify for other benefits, such as LifeLine phone service. LifeLine is a federal program that provides a discount on the cost of landline or cell phone service. As the name implies, this service can be a lifeline for many. In an emergency situation, being able to contact 911 quickly can be critical. But staying connected isn’t only important when there’s an emergency; it’s important in every day life. A reliable phone helps you stay connected to family, schedule appointments, communicate with your child’s school, and arrange a ride to and from the grocery store. Importantly, you can use your phone to check the balance on your EBT card. Contact EBT customer service by calling the toll-free number on the back of the card.