These tools are to Shop Smart for FOOD. USE a Shopping List. Utilize what you already have. Plan meals ahead.

Check here for tips to shop smarter.

  • Tip Sheet on Eating Better on a Budget - USDA

  • Plan Purchase Prepare - USDA

  • Eat Right When Money is Tight - USDA

  • Healthy Eating on a Budget

  • Spend Smart Eat Smart - Iowa State University Extension

  • Meals Matter - Healthy meals can be prepared in a short amount of time if you’re organized with some simple meal planning tools. Our meal planning tools -- My Meal Planner, My Cookbook, My Pantry and My Shopping List -- are designed to make healthy meal planning easier for you and your family!

  • MyPlate daily food plans and worksheets - The Daily Food Plan shows your food group targets – what and how much to eat within your calorie allowance. Your food plan is personalized, based on your age, gender, height, weight, and physical activity level. A helpful Worksheet is also available to help you keep track.

  • Healthy Meal Planning - There are many benefits to meal planning for your family, including healthy eating. By learning how to plan weekly meals and eating meals at home, you can control your portions and avoid eating hidden calories. In addition, family meals eaten at home tend to be less expensive and higher in nutrients. Planning healthy, balanced family meals for the week can be a time saver for even the busiest people. By shopping for your meals once a week, you can save time, money and gas by making fewer trips to the grocery store or drive-thru. Taking some time to learn how to plan balanced meals for your family will save you time—and help you eat better—in the long run.

  • Ohio Saves $ - All over America, people just like you are proving that you don't have to be rich to build wealth. As members of America Saves, they are paying off their debts and saving to reach their financial goals. These tips and tools can help you set goals, develop strategies to reach those goals, and start saving. So what are you waiting for? Take financial action in your life! “Start small, think big” and make your dreams a reality! enroll in Ohio Saves today!