Food Stamps
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Food stamps are a big decision and often weight heavily on parents, who have to explain what’s going on to dependents. Since over 45 million Americans or 1 in 7 are currently receiving food stamps, many families have already had the discussion and found that children are even more helpful with dinner plans and eating right when there’s a finite budget. In addition, reports have shown that half of America’s children are already receiving food stamps, which means that 1 in 5 children already rely on this government program to eat a nutritious healthy diet. However, it’s not about numbers or statistics when you’re talking to your family about going on assistants. Here’s some tips on how to explain it and how to make changes to your family’s diet when living on a shorter budget.
1. Be Honest about Your Situation
Children pick up on stress and worries even if you think you’re careful. It’s better to get these concerns out in the open and talk to kids honestly about what’s happening in your life and what is changing. It’s one way that you can reassure a child that there is a solution and that it’s okay to ask you questions. The conversation also allows your child to help you, as older kids can probably find more resources for food online or just take advantage of some cheap recipes, like the ones you find at FoodStamps.org.
2. Becoming a Role Model
You may not want to but eating healthy on a budget is going to be your new thing, because there’s a lot of bad food out there that costs cheap but gives you and your family no source of nutrients. Taking care of yourself is one way to show your kids how they can take care of themselves too. In addition, eating healthy will keep you and your family healthy. Combine fruits, vegetables and low fat cheeses to make healthy snacks and look for healthier recipes to enjoy online.
3. Reach Out for Help
In addition to food stamps, there are other resources for families, such as community organizations, churches, school programs and food banks which offer to help with supportive services and nutrition education, while also providing food assistance. You can check out Feeding America, Meals on Wheels, National School Lunch Program, the National WIC Association or your local food bank for more ideas.