🛒 Real Talk: Surviving the Formula Years & Feeding a Family on a Budget

When my kids were on formula, money was tight. If you haven’t already, apply for WIC — they’ll cover formula, and later milk, bread, cheese, beans, and more. Even special formulas are covered with a doctor’s note. As for groceries, I shop around: 🥩 Meat & dry goods at Grocery Outlet (cheaper cuts = big savings if you’re willing to trim) 🧀 Dairy from Aldi 🛒 Fill-in items from Walmart or Acme One day of “window shopping” to track local prices can save you so much long term. Cheap, filling meal ideas we love: 🍝 Beef stroganoff 🥣 Potato or white chicken chili (crock pot!) 🍔 Sloppy joes 🧁 Meatloaf "cupcakes" with mashed potato “icing” I buy canned veggies when they’re on sale and stock a few extras for a rainy day. And if you have time? Learn to make basics at home—bread, cooking fats, even protein balls. Homemade versions of store snacks = major savings. #FrugalMomHacks #BudgetMealIdeas #WICHelp #CrockPotWins #FeedingFamilySmart