Grocery Budget Tips & Food Access Resources

The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help them afford nutritious food that is essential to health and well-being. SNAP is utilized by more than 40 million Americans and is one of the most effective anti-poverty and public health programs in the U.S.

November SNAP benefits are currently on hold by the federal government and the USDA, meaning that millions of Americans will lose their benefits and will have to make crucial decisions between buying food and paying for other necessities such as housing, utilities, transportation, medication, etc.  

What can you do if you or someone you know is losing SNAP benefits? One important step is to contact your congressional members and urge them to take action to fund and expand SNAP benefits. You can use the search tool at Congress.gov - Find Your Member to find and contact your senators and representatives. 

We’ve also compiled some tips and tricks to help stretch your food budget as well as resources to access additional food as needed. Your dietitians at Weigh to Wellness Denver are happy to help you plan balanced and nutritious meals while stretching your food budget. 

Tips & Tricks to Stretch Your Food Budget 

• Take Inventory 

  Before you plan your meals or grocery list, take an inventory of what you already have on hand in your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer. As much as possible, plan meals around items you already have on hand, prioritizing items closest to their expiration dates. 

• Search for Deals  

  Before shopping, take a look at your local grocery store’s weekly sale ad and available coupons. It may be helpful to plan your weekly meals around these deals. Generic or store-brand products are typically budget-friendly alternatives to name brand items. 

• Make a List and Stick to It! 

  When grocery shopping, avoid purchasing unnecessary items. Be sure to have a balanced meal or healthy snack before heading to the store – it sounds silly, but shopping on an empty stomach is a good way to blow your nutrition goals as well as your grocery budget. 

• Shop in Season 

  Seasonal fruits and vegetables typically cost less. Don’t shy away from frozen or canned products as they are budget-friendly, nutritious alternatives when fresh produce is out of season or unaffordable – when possible, choose low or no sodium vegetables canned in water and fruits canned in water or 100% juice. Consider draining and/or rinsing canned fruits and vegetables to further reduce sodium and sugar intake. 

• Shop In Bulk  

  Purchasing staple items in bulk can be a good way to reduce grocery spending over longer periods of time. If you need to purchase smaller quantities, look for the lowest “unit price” when reading shelf tags. 

• Use Apps to Save Money and Reduce Food Waste 

  Shop Simple with MyPlate - Find savings in your area and discover new ways to prepare budget-friendly foods.

  Too Good To Go - Purchase surplus and leftover food from participating stores and restaurants for up to 50% off retail price

  Flashfood - Take advantage ot substantial savings on grocery items that are approaching theyr “best by” dates

Food Access Resources 

• Hunger Free Colorado - Find Food 

  • View the 211 Food Resource Map (or search by address or zip code) to find available options near you 

• Food Bank of the Rockies - Pantry Locator 

  • Search by address or zip code to find a food pantry or distribution event near you. 

• We Don't Waste - Mobile Food Markets 

  • Mobile Food Markets provide an opportunity to shop for food at NO COST – they are free and open to everyone. Specific food items cannot be guaranteed, but markets offer a selection of produce, dairy, proteins, bakery items, and shelf-stable products.  

  • Note: All mobile food markets are now reservation only. Click the link above for market dates/times, locations, and information on how to make a reservation. 

• Metro Caring - Fresh Foods Market 

  • The Fresh Foods Market is a grocery store-style market offering nutritious and culturally relevant foods at no cost. Inventory changes daily but the market prioritizes stocking fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and diet-specific foods. 

  • Note: Appointments are required. Click the link above to register for an account and schedule an appointment to shop.  

• Feeding America 

  • Search by zip code to find a food pantry, distribution event, or meal program near you. 

  • Consider hosting a virtual food drive fundraising campaign to help end hunger in your community! 

• FoodFinder (also available as an app) 

  • Interactive map – search by address or zip code to find food pantries and food assistance programs near you.