REDUCE SPENDING:

FOOD

1. Plan a week's menu in advance and make a shopping list based on the menu and coupons that are being offered that week.
   
   
2. Shop alone. Avoid taking children to prevent impulse shopping.
   
   
3. Stick to your list: Never shop when hungry.
   
   
4. Make as few trips as possible to the store. Limit the time for shopping.
   
   
5. If you have a freezer, use it to stock up on sale items.
   
   
6. Don't overbuy perishables because of a sale.
   
   
7. Buy in season. Fruits and vegetables are most expensive at the beginning and end of season.
   
   
8. Substitute store brands for name brands whenever possible. Use the Sunday paper advertising specials to see weekly sale items.
   
   
9. Use coupons only if you plan to buy that item.
   
   
10. Avoid extensive use of frozen "heat & eat" food.
    
    
11. Take lunches to school and work.
    
    
12. Give up restaurant eating, if possible. Try alternating meals with a friend or another family.
    
    
13. Try to avoid eating meat every day - substitute meat with beans or stir fry vegetables.
    
    
14. Buy day old bread products and freeze them for future use.