MISSED MEALS: Everyone is feeling the hit of inflation right now. And according to a survey by CouponBirds, nearly half of Pennsylvanians are skipping or missing meals due to unaffordable food prices.
Missing meals is unhealthy for all ages. Skipping meals can lead to overeating at the next meal, which defeats the purpose. It can also cause lightheadedness, fatigue, weight gain, fluctuations in blood sugar and many additional issues.
As you are putting together a meal plan for the week, consider removing high priced meat from a few of the meals and replacing it with a lower cost protein. For example, chili does not need to use beef. It tastes just as good with black beans. As you are preparing a meal, prepare extra, an additional meal for the freezer. This way a future dinner is prepared at no additional cost, and saves time by only requiring a short time in the microwave.
If the cost of groceries has risen to a place out of reach for your purse, like most, contact the local food pantries. They are here for the community to aid during times exactly such as these. Over the years we have all donated to various food drives, and at this time some in our community are in dire need of support.
Everyone needs assistance at times. Find local resources for aid here: the Friendship Table, (814) 362-6658, on Chambers Street provides meals at certain times of the day for those in need. Also, the following local entities offer food, clothing and/or other resources for Bradford and surrounding area residents in need.
All phone numbers have the 814 area code. Salvation Army, 368-7012; YWCA, 368-4235; McKean Co. Food Bank, 362-0071; Destinations Bradford, 331-4551; Northern Tier Community Action, 368-8551. Additionally, many area churches offer food and resources, without congregation requirements.
