In an ever expanding global market it's easy to forget that most of
our needs can be met by using the resources we have access to in our
own communities. As gasoline prices rise, which in turn tend to
increase the price of every item transported, it's to our advantage
as well as the environment to buy locally.
If you happen to own your home and it happens to sit on some land,
you could, in theory, be an almost self-sustaining unit. However, the
majority of us do not live on or have access to land, so we purchase
our goods from afar. My challenge to you is to find those resources
in your neighborhood and surrounding communities that can meet your
families needs while saving on transportation costs.
Find out who your local food providers are and how you can buy
directly from them. Many city's and town's have farmer's markets,
patronize yours. Look for food co-op's. If there aren't any in your
area, find other people with the same interest and start a co-op of
your own. Of course you can always grow some of your food yourself.
Many vegetables and herbs can be grown in containers all year round.
For household goods try local craft fairs, flea markets, yard or
garage sales. There are usually many thrift shops that could use your
patronage. In addition to the larger well established charities, look
for ones run by churches, hospices, or other community organizations.
If you need a personal donation, try your nearest online
Freecycle.com group. You'll save money and still get the household
items you want in addition to recycling local goods.
Library's not only have books to loan free of charge, but videos and
DVD's too. Most now have computers with internet access. There are
magazines to read, tax forms available, copy machine, children's
story hour and other activities. Call to find out exactly what
services are available at your library and support their fund-raising
efforts.
When shopping online don't forget about WAHM (Work At Home Mom)
businesses. There are many goods and services offered by WAHM's and
WAHD's, not just cloth diapers. You can help a family sustain itself
financially by seeking them out.
For those families who are in desperate circumstances, don't be shy
about looking into what is available from your community. Churches
are a great help to those in need even if you are not of their faith
or member of their church. Food banks can offer you free food.
Homeless shelters and domestic violence safe houses can provide
temporary shelter and other crisis services.
The following programs are available in most US states, look for
phone numbers in the phone book. Check out the requirements by
contacting the office near you:
Food Assistance and Nutrition Program
Information
Food Recovery and Gleaning Hotline - Phone 1-800-453-2648
Society of St. Andrew - Phone 1-
800-333-4597
WIC: Women, Infants and
Children - this state program offers food supplements to pregnant
women and family's with small children
Department of Human Services - food stamps, housing, cash assistance
The Emergency Food Box Program - two to seven day supply food box for
families in crisis
Salvation Army - help with utilities, free clothing
Utility Companies - contact the gas, electric and telephone companies
about help with reducing your bill
Local Housing Authority - help locating affordable housing
This article is just a starting point and I encourage you to network,
network, network! You never know who might have the perfect source
for your needs list.
© Copyright 2005, Marvel Selke All Rights Reserved.
About the Author: Marvel Selke is a natural-living mother and in-home caregiver. She is
the webmom of TreeHuggerz.com your green living on a
budget web resource, message board and second-hand store.
