I am super excited - I was able to find a supplier locally for the purchase of the actual bags that I am going to fill.
I was able to get durable bags that are large with bottom gussetts, handles and have zippers.
I thought this was important because most of these people don't have anything, so this way not only do they have a bag filled with personal hygiene items but they also have the bag itself which they can keep things safe and secure in.
It may not sound like a big deal to some people but to those who have nothing it is.
One third of the bags are blue, one third are green and one third are pink.
It was a little more than I wanted to spend per bag at $1.70 but to have the zipper was worth it.
Thank goodness that I am earning some money from survey sites and swagbucks to offset the cost, I ordered 100!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Expired Coupons for Military Families.
Time to send in those expired coupons!!
Military families stationed across the globe can use coupons that have expired, for up to six months past their expiration date.
What to send:
Where to send them:
KCL Overseas Coupon Program
c/o Cindy Carroll
215 Champion Hills Drive
Berryville, AR 72616
Lets support our troops and their families.
Thank you very much for all who have donated coupons to me - all coupons that have not been used to purchase items for the needy or are recently expired are on their way!
Military families stationed across the globe can use coupons that have expired, for up to six months past their expiration date.
What to send:
- Any manufacturers coupons
- Any Internet coupons
- Any expired ( no more than 30 days) or non expired coupons
What not to send:
- Coupons that are over 30 days expired
- Store Coupons
- Once a month
- Place them in seperate Ziploc bags
- Label one Non Food Item
- Label one Food item (Anything that can be eaten or put in a human beings mouth like vitamins, gum etc..)
Where to send them:
KCL Overseas Coupon Program
c/o Cindy Carroll
215 Champion Hills Drive
Berryville, AR 72616
Lets support our troops and their families.
Thank you very much for all who have donated coupons to me - all coupons that have not been used to purchase items for the needy or are recently expired are on their way!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
CVS - Aveeno Shampoo & Conditioner FREE + MONEY MAKER
Only had time to run in to CVS this morning as we had to drop the kiddos at their grandparents for a fun week of camp.
CVS
Has a great ECB deal when you buy $25 of Aveeno products you receive $10 in ECB's and can submit for the $10 Aveeno Rebate
I believe the rebate excludes Aveeno Vitality Kits - so read carefully.
Also, there are great coupons for these to make the whole transaction FREE except for tax.
Here is how my deal went this morning:
Bought 2 Aveeno Shampoos - $6.49 each
Bought 2 Aveeno Conditioners - $6.49 each
Total Cost Before Coupons : $25.96
Use 2 $1.50 Aveeno Shampoo Coupons - www.coupons.com (Personal)
Use 2 $1.50 off Aveeno Conditioner Coupons - www.coupons.com (Personal)
Cost after coupons :$16.96
Used $4 off $20 coupon from CVS, these frequently will print from the kiosk at the store. Just scan your card and you will randomly be given coupons to use.
Cost after Coupon: $12.96
Paid for the item with $8.00 ECBS that I earned last week when I scored 4 free tubes of Colgate Toothpaste
Total cash out of pocket was $4.96
Now don't forget , I also recieved $10 in ECB's to use on my next transaction and I submitted it for the $10 Aveeno rebate.
Grand total when I receive the rebate and use the ECBs is All 4 products FREE plus $15.04
Don't forget to hit your back browser once they print as you can print each coupon twice.
This deal also works for Aveeno stylers.
These are going straight into the bags of hope and the overage will go towards my fund for the purchasing the bags themselves...still working on a supplier.
Should I not mention that hubby did a CVS transaction and bought AA batteries and some snacks, and gum for the trip for a grand total $32.
No coupons but almost a heart attack for me when we paid full price for everything!!!!
Happy shopping everyone.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Walgreens Deals for 6/24
There are some great freebies this week that will be a great addition to The Bags of Hope:
Blistex Fruit Smoothie Lip Care - 3 pack
Cost $2.99
No coupon available for this product but you earn $2.99 register Rewards to use on your next purchase
Final Cost: FREE
With the heat down here in NC I am sure the ladies will love these!!
Johnson and Johnson Reach Crystal Toothbrushes or Floss
Cost: .99
Use $1.00 Coupon off floss or the $1.00 Coupon off Toothbrushes
Final Cost: FREE
Sure Deodorant
Cost: $1.99
Use $1.00 Coupon
Final Cost: .99 plus get $1 in register Rewards
Final Cost after Coupons and RR : FREE Plus Overage to go towards other items
**Make sure to keep your eye out for the "try me Free" stickers on certain Sure Deodorants
you can mail the original cash register receipt and form for a full rebate - one per household.
Noxzema Triple Blade Disposable razors (4 count)
Cost: $3.99
Use: $2.00/1 Coupon
Final Cost: $1.99 and get $3.99 back in Register Rewards
Final Cost after Coupons and RR: FREE with $1 overage to go towards other items
Thanks again to all who have been sending me coupons for the puchase of item for the
BAGS OF HOPE!!
I hope to wholesale bag supplier lined up this week - most of the time these people do not even have a bag to put things in except for plastic ziploc bags they are given
I am hoping to find tote bags with handles and possibly zippers so that they can carry their item with them securely.
Blistex Fruit Smoothie Lip Care - 3 pack
Cost $2.99
No coupon available for this product but you earn $2.99 register Rewards to use on your next purchase
Final Cost: FREE
With the heat down here in NC I am sure the ladies will love these!!
Johnson and Johnson Reach Crystal Toothbrushes or Floss
Cost: .99
Use $1.00 Coupon off floss or the $1.00 Coupon off Toothbrushes
Final Cost: FREE
Sure Deodorant
Cost: $1.99
Use $1.00 Coupon
Final Cost: .99 plus get $1 in register Rewards
Final Cost after Coupons and RR : FREE Plus Overage to go towards other items
**Make sure to keep your eye out for the "try me Free" stickers on certain Sure Deodorants
you can mail the original cash register receipt and form for a full rebate - one per household.
Noxzema Triple Blade Disposable razors (4 count)
Cost: $3.99
Use: $2.00/1 Coupon
Final Cost: $1.99 and get $3.99 back in Register Rewards
Final Cost after Coupons and RR: FREE with $1 overage to go towards other items
Thanks again to all who have been sending me coupons for the puchase of item for the
BAGS OF HOPE!!
I hope to wholesale bag supplier lined up this week - most of the time these people do not even have a bag to put things in except for plastic ziploc bags they are given
I am hoping to find tote bags with handles and possibly zippers so that they can carry their item with them securely.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Thank you Teresa
I would like to thank Teresa again for all the great coupons she has mailed me this week - they are being put to great use!!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Rite Aid - Up Rewards Program
Rite Aid has a new program in addition to their Single Check Rebates (SCR).
This Reward UP Program requires you to sign up for a Rite Aid Wellness Card, which takes one minute.
You need to have your Reward Card scanned prior to each transaction.
Things I like about the program:
1. You are not limited to the amount of rewards you can earn.
i.e: If I want to earn $2 Up Reward on toothpaste I can earn as many as I want but I must
do each one in a separate transaction; buy only one in each transaction and earn a reward
buying two will still only produce one reward
2. You can use your rewards in combination with other coupons.
3. You can roll the rewards
i.e.: You can use the toothpaste reward to buy another toothpaste
Things I do not like about the program:
1. You can not earn more than one reward per transaction.
2. When you scan your reward card, sometimes it takes off the your percentage off - which
means some quick recalculating at the cash register.
It may end up being a good program - I just need to do a it more tinkering with it.
I did manage to score about four Colgate Toothpastes for the Bags of Hope for about .50 total!
This Reward UP Program requires you to sign up for a Rite Aid Wellness Card, which takes one minute.
You need to have your Reward Card scanned prior to each transaction.
Things I like about the program:
1. You are not limited to the amount of rewards you can earn.
i.e: If I want to earn $2 Up Reward on toothpaste I can earn as many as I want but I must
do each one in a separate transaction; buy only one in each transaction and earn a reward
buying two will still only produce one reward
2. You can use your rewards in combination with other coupons.
3. You can roll the rewards
i.e.: You can use the toothpaste reward to buy another toothpaste
Things I do not like about the program:
1. You can not earn more than one reward per transaction.
2. When you scan your reward card, sometimes it takes off the your percentage off - which
means some quick recalculating at the cash register.
It may end up being a good program - I just need to do a it more tinkering with it.
I did manage to score about four Colgate Toothpastes for the Bags of Hope for about .50 total!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Frugal versus Cheap.
I get this question a lot from people, do I consider myself to be cheap?
No, I do not...I consider myself to be frugal.
To me someone who is cheap is unwilling to spend money on something, regardless of their needs and/or desires.
Being frugal to me is scoping out the best deal possible to buy what you need or want in order to be able to buy more things that you need or want.
This does not mean to me doing without.. it is taking the time to educate yourself about all the different ways to save money.
People also ask me, do you ever pay full retail price for anything?
At first, I shuddered at the thought.
I almost never pay retail for things, but for example, both my kids came down with a fever a few nights ago and due to the Motrin/Tylenol recall it was in limited supply.
Being cheap to me would have been to let them do without or buy the most inexpensive OTC there was.
The frugal part of me checked the OTC medications we had at home first, then I went to the drugstore and bought only the OTC medication that we needed until the recall is done and then there should be some great deals on Tylenol and Motrin.
Cheap...NO
Frugal ...Yes
Pay retail for things..almost never...that was until my husband brought home two things of shampoo, I couldn't even bear to look at the receipt.
Cheap...maybe?
No, I do not...I consider myself to be frugal.
To me someone who is cheap is unwilling to spend money on something, regardless of their needs and/or desires.
Being frugal to me is scoping out the best deal possible to buy what you need or want in order to be able to buy more things that you need or want.
This does not mean to me doing without.. it is taking the time to educate yourself about all the different ways to save money.
People also ask me, do you ever pay full retail price for anything?
At first, I shuddered at the thought.
I almost never pay retail for things, but for example, both my kids came down with a fever a few nights ago and due to the Motrin/Tylenol recall it was in limited supply.
Being cheap to me would have been to let them do without or buy the most inexpensive OTC there was.
The frugal part of me checked the OTC medications we had at home first, then I went to the drugstore and bought only the OTC medication that we needed until the recall is done and then there should be some great deals on Tylenol and Motrin.
Cheap...NO
Frugal ...Yes
Pay retail for things..almost never...that was until my husband brought home two things of shampoo, I couldn't even bear to look at the receipt.
Cheap...maybe?
Sunday, June 20, 2010
CVS - Free Colgate
This week CVS has a great deal for Colgate Total or Advanced Total Toothpaste - 4 oz.
Limit is 2 per customer for ECBS
Colgate - $2.99
Use $1/1 Coupon for Colgate
Price after Coupon: 1.99 out of pocket
Earn $2 Extra Care Bucks per each toothpaste bought
Final Price after coupons and ECB: FREE
These will be heading into the bags of hope for the ladies.
Remember to use the ECBS before they expire - usually within a week or two from purchasing the item. Without spending it - you do not fully realize the savings.
Limit is 2 per customer for ECBS
Colgate - $2.99
Use $1/1 Coupon for Colgate
Price after Coupon: 1.99 out of pocket
Earn $2 Extra Care Bucks per each toothpaste bought
Final Price after coupons and ECB: FREE
These will be heading into the bags of hope for the ladies.
Remember to use the ECBS before they expire - usually within a week or two from purchasing the item. Without spending it - you do not fully realize the savings.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Gillette Bodywash - MONEYMAKER at Walgreen this week
Cut your coupons, here are the best deals so far for this week:
Gillette Bodywash on sale for $4.49
Purchase one and get $4.50 in Register Rewards
Deal:
Purchase two Body Washes
Total Price: $8.78
Use the $4/2 Gillete Bodywashes
Price: $4.78
Use the Gillete Buy One Get One Coupon
Price: .39
Final Price After Coupons: .39 cents for TWO and get a $4.50 Register Reward
After using the Register Reward: FREE plus $4.11 MONEY MAKER
Remember it does matter what order you give the cashier the coupons.
If you give them the BOGO coupon first it will remove a Body Wash from the total so when you go to use the $4/2 coupon it will not go through because there is not two items for it to attach to only one.
If you give the $4/2 coupon first it removes the $4. Then hand the BOGO coupon and it will take one Body Wash off.
Most Walgreen cashiers know this but it will save you time at the register.
Gillette Bodywash on sale for $4.49
Purchase one and get $4.50 in Register Rewards
Deal:
Purchase two Body Washes
Total Price: $8.78
Use the $4/2 Gillete Bodywashes
Price: $4.78
Use the Gillete Buy One Get One Coupon
Price: .39
Final Price After Coupons: .39 cents for TWO and get a $4.50 Register Reward
After using the Register Reward: FREE plus $4.11 MONEY MAKER
Remember it does matter what order you give the cashier the coupons.
If you give them the BOGO coupon first it will remove a Body Wash from the total so when you go to use the $4/2 coupon it will not go through because there is not two items for it to attach to only one.
If you give the $4/2 coupon first it removes the $4. Then hand the BOGO coupon and it will take one Body Wash off.
Most Walgreen cashiers know this but it will save you time at the register.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Vacation Bibe School
I haven't posted much as the kids were attending Vacation Bible School this week at St Marks Methodist Church and had a wonderful time.
Everyday they worked on a "Mission Project" such as putting together soap packets for laundry use, making cards for relief workers, decorating bags for hats made by volunteers for the sick and putting together silverware packets for community lunches.
I was wonderful to see them think of others and have fun doing it.
They also couldn't believe all that they accomplished when the week was done.
They collect a lot of food for the local Food Pantry - let's hope that it makes a difference this summer when food pantries run very low on donations.
Think of dropping off a bag of non perishables the next time you are in the supermarket - use the buy one get one free deals and donate those!
We can all make a difference.
Everyday they worked on a "Mission Project" such as putting together soap packets for laundry use, making cards for relief workers, decorating bags for hats made by volunteers for the sick and putting together silverware packets for community lunches.
I was wonderful to see them think of others and have fun doing it.
They also couldn't believe all that they accomplished when the week was done.
They collect a lot of food for the local Food Pantry - let's hope that it makes a difference this summer when food pantries run very low on donations.
Think of dropping off a bag of non perishables the next time you are in the supermarket - use the buy one get one free deals and donate those!
We can all make a difference.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
****$10 Food Collection Challenge *****
My kids are collecting food for Sophie's Bread Box - a local food pantry and I challenged myself to see how much food we could get in their paper bags for $10 using coupons.
Granted a lot of healthy food generally does not have coupons such as fresh fruit, vegetables and meat - I did try to stick to things that would be as healthy as prepackaged food could be.
The grand total - two full paper shopping bags for $4.82
I won't go into all the deals but the bulk of the food consisted of:
6 full size boxes of cereal
4 cans of chicken broth
2 bags of beans
6 cans of tuna
2 jars of peanut butter
2 jars of meat marinades
2 packages of taco seasonings
2 jars of mayo
I am so proud of them - and they are really getting the concept of helping other.
Prayers tonight consisted of hoping that the people that need the food get it.
Granted a lot of healthy food generally does not have coupons such as fresh fruit, vegetables and meat - I did try to stick to things that would be as healthy as prepackaged food could be.
The grand total - two full paper shopping bags for $4.82
I won't go into all the deals but the bulk of the food consisted of:
6 full size boxes of cereal
4 cans of chicken broth
2 bags of beans
6 cans of tuna
2 jars of peanut butter
2 jars of meat marinades
2 packages of taco seasonings
2 jars of mayo
I am so proud of them - and they are really getting the concept of helping other.
Prayers tonight consisted of hoping that the people that need the food get it.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Schick 3 Hydro Razor Rebate and Money Maker!!
There are many places you can take advantage of this deal - and with Father's Day
coming up I am sure all of our hubby's could use a clean shave.
Rebate can be found here -
http://www.schickhydro.com/freehydro/
Deal:
Buy one Schick Hydro 3 Blade Razor System and use the $5 off coupon found in the Smart Source coupons from this past Sunday.
This is where I did mine:
Walgreens:
Bought one Schick Razor 3 on sale for $7.99 and used $5 coupon = $4.99
Receive $5 Register Reward to use on another transaction
Out of pocket - $4.99
Final cost after using my Register Reward on my next transaction - $1 Money Maker
Final Cost after receiving the rebate $7.99 Money Maker
You can also do this deal at CVS and Rite Aid.
CVS will come out to a final cost of Free with an $8.97 Money Maker after you receive your rebate
Rite Aid will turn this into a $6 money maker after receiving the rebate.
Let me know what you are planning on doing.
Don't forget to follow the instructions on the rebate exactly - send in the original cash register receipt, rebate form and UPC code from the package. You only have 30 days to do this from the day of purchase.
I always make a copy of the rebate and receipts before mailing.
Have fun.
coming up I am sure all of our hubby's could use a clean shave.
Rebate can be found here -
http://www.schickhydro.com/freehydro/
Deal:
Buy one Schick Hydro 3 Blade Razor System and use the $5 off coupon found in the Smart Source coupons from this past Sunday.
This is where I did mine:
Walgreens:
Bought one Schick Razor 3 on sale for $7.99 and used $5 coupon = $4.99
Receive $5 Register Reward to use on another transaction
Out of pocket - $4.99
Final cost after using my Register Reward on my next transaction - $1 Money Maker
Final Cost after receiving the rebate $7.99 Money Maker
You can also do this deal at CVS and Rite Aid.
CVS will come out to a final cost of Free with an $8.97 Money Maker after you receive your rebate
Rite Aid will turn this into a $6 money maker after receiving the rebate.
Let me know what you are planning on doing.
Don't forget to follow the instructions on the rebate exactly - send in the original cash register receipt, rebate form and UPC code from the package. You only have 30 days to do this from the day of purchase.
I always make a copy of the rebate and receipts before mailing.
Have fun.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
My Shopping today $100 worth of items for $5.79 a 94% Savings!!
I tried to take pictures today of my shopping trip - but I am having trouble uploading them
Walgreens
Transaction #1:
Bought:
Schick Razor $7.99
(2) Reach Toothbrushes - $4.49 Each = $8.98
Total before Coupons - $16.97
Used $5 of one Schick Coupon,
$3 In ad Walgreen Coupon for Reach Toothbrushes ( takes off $6.00)
$2 off two Reach Toothbrush Coupon
Total Out Of Pocket After Coupons: 4.82 plus a $5 Register Reward
Transaction #2:
(3) Cans Swanson Chicken Broth - 3 for $3.50
(2) Post Honey Nut Cereal - $1.99 Each
Pampers Wipes - $2.99
Total Before Coupons: $18.42
Used
(3) $1.00 Swanson Chicken Broth
(2) $3.00 Reach Toothbrushes & Listerine (takes of $6.00)
$2 off 2 Reach Toothbrushes
$2 of Pampers Wipes
and used $5 Register Reward from previous transaction
Total After Coupons: $2.06
Transaction #3
Nivea Body Wash for Men - $5.99
Total Before Coupons: $ 6.45
Used:
$5 off Nivea
Total After Coupons: $3.45 plus received a $6 Register Reward
Transaction #4
Listerine Mouthwash - $5.99
(2) Reach Toothbrushes - $4.49 Each = $8.98
(2) Post Honey Nut Cereal - $1.99 Each = $4.98
Post Shredded Wheat Cereal - $1.99
Post Grape Nuts - $1.99
Total Before Coupons - $33.17
Used:
$2 off Listerine Coupon
$2 off 2 Reach Toothbrushes Coupon
$3.oo Walgreens In Ad off Reach Toothbrushes & Listerine - (Takes off $9 total)
(2) $1 Off Two Post Cereal Coupon
$5 Register Rewards earned in previous transaction
Total After Coupons: $2.55 and submit for the $10 for the Listerine Dare to Wear Rebate
Total After Coupons and rebate = all FREE plus $7.45 MONEY MAKER!!
Total for all four transactions at Walgreens:
Before Coupons - $75.01
After Coupons and Rebate- $2.88
Rite Aid
(2)Old Spice Body Wash - $2.99 Each = $5.98
Herbal Essence Shampoo - $2.49
Bayer Aspirin - $1.99
Total Before Coupons - $12.38
Used:
$1.00 off Old Spice Body Wash
Buy One Get one Free Old Spice Body Wash - $2.99
$1.00 Coupon off Herbal Shampoo
$1.00 in Ad Rite Aid Coupon off Bayer
$1.00 Off Bayer
Single Check Rebate of $1.50 For Herbal Shampoo
Total Out of Pocket - $3.47 plus $1.50 Single Check Rebate = $1.97
CVS
(2) Old Spice Body Wash for Men - $4.00 each = $8
Plastic Soap Holder - $1.19
(6) Cotton Swabs - 2 for $1 = $3.00
Total Before Coupons - $13.13
Used:
$1.00 off two Old Spice Body Wash - -$1.00
Old Spice Buy One Get One Free Body Wash Coupon - $4.00
$2 off $6 Body Wash CVS COUPON
$5 Extra Care Bucks from previous transaction
Total After Coupons - $.94
Total is $100.52 worth of items before coupons for only $5.79
That is a total of 94% Savings
Eight Toothbrushes
Six Boxes of Cereal
Three Cans of Chicken Both
Four Bottles of Body Wash
One Bottle of Mouthwash
Six Boxes of Cotton Swab
One Tub of Baby Wipes
One Plastic Soap Holder
One Bottle of Shampoo
One OTC Medication
The shopping trip only took about an hour.
The food is going to Sophie's Bread Box that the kids are collecting for Vacation Bible Camp
All the other items are for the shelter and the 'Bags of Hope"
Thanks to all who sent me coupons to make this possible.
You can do it too!!
Walgreens
Transaction #1:
Bought:
Schick Razor $7.99
(2) Reach Toothbrushes - $4.49 Each = $8.98
Total before Coupons - $16.97
Used $5 of one Schick Coupon,
$3 In ad Walgreen Coupon for Reach Toothbrushes ( takes off $6.00)
$2 off two Reach Toothbrush Coupon
Total Out Of Pocket After Coupons: 4.82 plus a $5 Register Reward
Transaction #2:
(3) Cans Swanson Chicken Broth - 3 for $3.50
(2) Post Honey Nut Cereal - $1.99 Each
Pampers Wipes - $2.99
Total Before Coupons: $18.42
Used
(3) $1.00 Swanson Chicken Broth
(2) $3.00 Reach Toothbrushes & Listerine (takes of $6.00)
$2 off 2 Reach Toothbrushes
$2 of Pampers Wipes
and used $5 Register Reward from previous transaction
Total After Coupons: $2.06
Transaction #3
Nivea Body Wash for Men - $5.99
Total Before Coupons: $ 6.45
Used:
$5 off Nivea
Total After Coupons: $3.45 plus received a $6 Register Reward
Transaction #4
Listerine Mouthwash - $5.99
(2) Reach Toothbrushes - $4.49 Each = $8.98
(2) Post Honey Nut Cereal - $1.99 Each = $4.98
Post Shredded Wheat Cereal - $1.99
Post Grape Nuts - $1.99
Total Before Coupons - $33.17
Used:
$2 off Listerine Coupon
$2 off 2 Reach Toothbrushes Coupon
$3.oo Walgreens In Ad off Reach Toothbrushes & Listerine - (Takes off $9 total)
(2) $1 Off Two Post Cereal Coupon
$5 Register Rewards earned in previous transaction
Total After Coupons: $2.55 and submit for the $10 for the Listerine Dare to Wear Rebate
Total After Coupons and rebate = all FREE plus $7.45 MONEY MAKER!!
Total for all four transactions at Walgreens:
Before Coupons - $75.01
After Coupons and Rebate- $2.88
Rite Aid
(2)Old Spice Body Wash - $2.99 Each = $5.98
Herbal Essence Shampoo - $2.49
Bayer Aspirin - $1.99
Total Before Coupons - $12.38
Used:
$1.00 off Old Spice Body Wash
Buy One Get one Free Old Spice Body Wash - $2.99
$1.00 Coupon off Herbal Shampoo
$1.00 in Ad Rite Aid Coupon off Bayer
$1.00 Off Bayer
Single Check Rebate of $1.50 For Herbal Shampoo
Total Out of Pocket - $3.47 plus $1.50 Single Check Rebate = $1.97
CVS
(2) Old Spice Body Wash for Men - $4.00 each = $8
Plastic Soap Holder - $1.19
(6) Cotton Swabs - 2 for $1 = $3.00
Total Before Coupons - $13.13
Used:
$1.00 off two Old Spice Body Wash - -$1.00
Old Spice Buy One Get One Free Body Wash Coupon - $4.00
$2 off $6 Body Wash CVS COUPON
$5 Extra Care Bucks from previous transaction
Total After Coupons - $.94
Total is $100.52 worth of items before coupons for only $5.79
That is a total of 94% Savings
Eight Toothbrushes
Six Boxes of Cereal
Three Cans of Chicken Both
Four Bottles of Body Wash
One Bottle of Mouthwash
Six Boxes of Cotton Swab
One Tub of Baby Wipes
One Plastic Soap Holder
One Bottle of Shampoo
One OTC Medication
The shopping trip only took about an hour.
The food is going to Sophie's Bread Box that the kids are collecting for Vacation Bible Camp
All the other items are for the shelter and the 'Bags of Hope"
Thanks to all who sent me coupons to make this possible.
You can do it too!!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Using coupons to buy free things can make you $$$
One question I get all the time is, "I have coupons but they are always for things I don't need."
At what point do you buy something because it is cheap or free?
There is a method to purchasing an item that you may not normally use, to get money towards another item.
For example:
This week at Walgreens Nivea Body Wash for Men is on sale for $5.99.
While we do not use this product I will buy it for the following deal.
Purchase Nivea Body Wash for Men - $5.99 and get $5.99 back in Register Rewards.
Use the $3 coupon off Nivea Body Wash for Men
Total $5.99 - 3.00 Coupon = 2.99 Out Of Pocket and $5.99 back in Register Rewards
Final Cost - FREE plus have $2.99 in overage that you can use towards another item.
For example:
Do the above transaction and purchase 3 Reach toothbrushes for .99 each
Total cost. 5.99 Nivea & .2.97 Toothbrushes = $8.96
Use the $3 coupon for Nivea
Cost: $5.96 plus $5.99 in Register Rewards
Final Cost after using the Register Reward in your next transacion is .03.
Extreme Couponing would take it one step further.
Do the above transaction for the Nivea and Toothbrush but this time use (3) $1.00 coupons for the toothbrushes
Final Cost: All four item for FREE plus $5.99 Register Rewards to use next time.
I will donate the body wash to the shelter, the toothbrushes for the bags and use the $3.00 to purchase other items.
While I would not purchase something that I can not donate or use for free, if there is money to go towards overage it almost always works out to be a great deal.
It is important to rememeber that you do not see the saving until you actaully spend the Register Reward - if you forget about them or let them expire you are losing all the savings because you have already paid for the item out of your pocket.
I will use my $5.99 in Register Rewards and spend it on items that will earn me more Register Rewards , continuing to use coupons on the item and so on and so on....
A Register Reward is like Cash - don't lose them and don't forget to use them.
At what point do you buy something because it is cheap or free?
There is a method to purchasing an item that you may not normally use, to get money towards another item.
For example:
This week at Walgreens Nivea Body Wash for Men is on sale for $5.99.
While we do not use this product I will buy it for the following deal.
Purchase Nivea Body Wash for Men - $5.99 and get $5.99 back in Register Rewards.
Use the $3 coupon off Nivea Body Wash for Men
Total $5.99 - 3.00 Coupon = 2.99 Out Of Pocket and $5.99 back in Register Rewards
Final Cost - FREE plus have $2.99 in overage that you can use towards another item.
For example:
Do the above transaction and purchase 3 Reach toothbrushes for .99 each
Total cost. 5.99 Nivea & .2.97 Toothbrushes = $8.96
Use the $3 coupon for Nivea
Cost: $5.96 plus $5.99 in Register Rewards
Final Cost after using the Register Reward in your next transacion is .03.
Extreme Couponing would take it one step further.
Do the above transaction for the Nivea and Toothbrush but this time use (3) $1.00 coupons for the toothbrushes
Final Cost: All four item for FREE plus $5.99 Register Rewards to use next time.
I will donate the body wash to the shelter, the toothbrushes for the bags and use the $3.00 to purchase other items.
While I would not purchase something that I can not donate or use for free, if there is money to go towards overage it almost always works out to be a great deal.
It is important to rememeber that you do not see the saving until you actaully spend the Register Reward - if you forget about them or let them expire you are losing all the savings because you have already paid for the item out of your pocket.
I will use my $5.99 in Register Rewards and spend it on items that will earn me more Register Rewards , continuing to use coupons on the item and so on and so on....
A Register Reward is like Cash - don't lose them and don't forget to use them.
SWAGBUCKS
Swagbucks - what is it?
Swagbucks is a website site that you can earn digital dollars or swagbucks.
You can use your swagbucks and redeem them for different items in the swag store.
This can be anything from gift cards, clothing, electronics, donations to charity or good old fashion $$.
You can earn more by completing surveys, offers and playing games.
I have earned mine solely by using them as a search engine.
It takes two minutes to sign up and that's it - I have earned about $45 so far that I have cashed out in $5.00 increments directly to my Paypal Account.
I use the money to offset the costs of purchases made for the charities - to me it feels like free money.....now if everyone did this and used there $$ for charities what a difference we could make.
Swagbucks is a website site that you can earn digital dollars or swagbucks.
You can use your swagbucks and redeem them for different items in the swag store.
This can be anything from gift cards, clothing, electronics, donations to charity or good old fashion $$.
You can earn more by completing surveys, offers and playing games.
I have earned mine solely by using them as a search engine.
It takes two minutes to sign up and that's it - I have earned about $45 so far that I have cashed out in $5.00 increments directly to my Paypal Account.
I use the money to offset the costs of purchases made for the charities - to me it feels like free money.....now if everyone did this and used there $$ for charities what a difference we could make.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Target - Olay and Ivory Soap - nearly free.
Two great coupons to use for before they expire a Target or anywhere else.
$4.00 off Olay Total Effects Body Wash
Buy One Olay Total Effects Body Wash get Ivory soap up to $3.99 value free
My Deal today at Target:
Bought:
(2) Total Olay Body Wash - $4.89
(2) 10 pack of Ivory Soap - 4.24
Total Before Coupons = 18.26 & 1.41 (Tax) = 19.67
Used:
(2) Olay Effects 4.00 coupons
(2) Buy Olay Effects and get Ivory Soap coupons
Total After Coupons = 2.28 & 1.41 (Tax) = 3.69
Two Olay Body Washes (for the shelter) & 20 bars of soap for the Bags of Hope
I love to break it down per item which makes it .16 per item.
More Thank yous!!
I have no idea who sent them, but I am in tears with gratitude for the wonderful person that sent a manila envelope with all cut coupons that I received today.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
If you would like to donate your unused coupons please email me or see the address at the side for the mailing address.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Another Thank you to Terese from Apex, NC
A very big thank you to Terese from Apex, NC who has sent me coupons twice.
She coupons swaps with friends and takes the time to send me the coupons that they are not using.
They are going to great use.
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
CVS - How it works
I though I would try and map out each store and it policies and how to get the most for your dollar.
CVS in one of the easiest and straight forward stores to coupon at.
They have a reward program in the form of an Extra Care Card which is card you sign up for and slip on your keyring. Every time you make a purchase have it scanned and you will earn Extra Care Bucks or ECB's for certain items.
The easiest way to do this is to search the Sunday CVS insert and see what items will be producing ECB's that week.
Buy using coupons on items that will produce ECB's not only can you get an item for FREE but you can actually get overage to put towards other items.
ECB's will print out at the bottom of your CVS receipt - keep them and use them as money towards you next purchase. The expiration date for ECB is usually 2 - 3 weeks from them being printed.
For Example:
Dove Deoderant is on sale for $2.99; when you buy one you recieve @2.00 fo ECB's back to be used on your nexxt purchase.
So you pay $2.99 but have a ECB worth $2.00 that you can use on your next purchase.
Out of pocket for that transaction is .$2.99
Like getting it for .99 when you use the ECB on the next transaction.
Here is how to sweeten the deal by using a coupon:
Buy one Dove Deodeartnt on sale for $2.99 - use a manusfacturers coupon for .75 and receive a $2.00 ECB.
Out of pocket for this transaction is 2.24.
Like getting it for .24 when you use your ECB on the next transaction.
Sweeten the deal furthur by using a high value coupon.
Buy one Dove Deoderant for $2.99 - use a $2.00 coupon and get a $2.00 ECB.
Out of pocket for this transaction is. 99 and get a $2.00 ECB.
Like getting it for free with $1.01 Overage to go towards your next purchase.
May be a bit confusint at first - the ost important thing is that you do not realize your true savings until you spend the ECB that you earned.
In other words, if I did the above transaction and bought the deoderant for $2.99 with no coupon and received the ECB for $2.00 but then never spent is, it is like I soent $2.99 and never received any savings.
The great thing about CVS is that there are no restrictions on using ECBs so if you wanted to roll them; do the above transaction get a $2.00 ECB and then in a seperate transaction buy another one use the $2.00 ECB to pay for art of the Dove deoderant and pay only .99 out of pocket, and recceive another $2.00 ECB for the next transaction.
A great site to check out is http://Iheartcvs.com it has the latest deals and previews for the next for weeks upcoming ads so you can get your coupons ready.
CVS in one of the easiest and straight forward stores to coupon at.
They have a reward program in the form of an Extra Care Card which is card you sign up for and slip on your keyring. Every time you make a purchase have it scanned and you will earn Extra Care Bucks or ECB's for certain items.
The easiest way to do this is to search the Sunday CVS insert and see what items will be producing ECB's that week.
Buy using coupons on items that will produce ECB's not only can you get an item for FREE but you can actually get overage to put towards other items.
ECB's will print out at the bottom of your CVS receipt - keep them and use them as money towards you next purchase. The expiration date for ECB is usually 2 - 3 weeks from them being printed.
For Example:
Dove Deoderant is on sale for $2.99; when you buy one you recieve @2.00 fo ECB's back to be used on your nexxt purchase.
So you pay $2.99 but have a ECB worth $2.00 that you can use on your next purchase.
Out of pocket for that transaction is .$2.99
Like getting it for .99 when you use the ECB on the next transaction.
Here is how to sweeten the deal by using a coupon:
Buy one Dove Deodeartnt on sale for $2.99 - use a manusfacturers coupon for .75 and receive a $2.00 ECB.
Out of pocket for this transaction is 2.24.
Like getting it for .24 when you use your ECB on the next transaction.
Sweeten the deal furthur by using a high value coupon.
Buy one Dove Deoderant for $2.99 - use a $2.00 coupon and get a $2.00 ECB.
Out of pocket for this transaction is. 99 and get a $2.00 ECB.
Like getting it for free with $1.01 Overage to go towards your next purchase.
May be a bit confusint at first - the ost important thing is that you do not realize your true savings until you spend the ECB that you earned.
In other words, if I did the above transaction and bought the deoderant for $2.99 with no coupon and received the ECB for $2.00 but then never spent is, it is like I soent $2.99 and never received any savings.
The great thing about CVS is that there are no restrictions on using ECBs so if you wanted to roll them; do the above transaction get a $2.00 ECB and then in a seperate transaction buy another one use the $2.00 ECB to pay for art of the Dove deoderant and pay only .99 out of pocket, and recceive another $2.00 ECB for the next transaction.
A great site to check out is http://Iheartcvs.com it has the latest deals and previews for the next for weeks upcoming ads so you can get your coupons ready.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Received Medco Order already - that was fast!
Remember the Medco Health Store I told you about that offered a $10 code off any $10 purchase with .99 cent shipping?
I came home to find my first order already at my doorstep.
Three toothbrush holders and two soap holder for $1.30 shipped to my front door.
I have another order coming next week.
These are really durable plastic and will go great in the 'bags of hope'.
This is going to be a regular place for me to search to see if they have new coupon codes - if I find any I'll let you know.
I came home to find my first order already at my doorstep.
Three toothbrush holders and two soap holder for $1.30 shipped to my front door.
I have another order coming next week.
These are really durable plastic and will go great in the 'bags of hope'.
This is going to be a regular place for me to search to see if they have new coupon codes - if I find any I'll let you know.
Expired Coupons help Military Families.
OK - you go through your coupons and realize you have a ton of expired ones so you go to toss them in the trash - WAIT!!!
Here is more about the program where I send mine or any that I collect that I can either not use or are expired.
Read about it here.
http://www.grocerysavingstips.com/expiredgrocerycoupons.htm
Here is more about the program where I send mine or any that I collect that I can either not use or are expired.
Read about it here.
http://www.grocerysavingstips.com/expiredgrocerycoupons.htm
Monday, June 7, 2010
Medco Store $10 off $10 Coupon - More FREE Toothbrush and Soap Holders
I think this is going to be one of my new favorite stores - MEDCO Health Store
Go here and http://www.medcohealthstore.com use PROMO Code DR10 and you will get $10 off a $10 order and shipping is only .99!
I was able to score three soap holders and three more toothbrush cases for only $1.73.
I would do it soon - these codes won't last long!
Go here and http://www.medcohealthstore.com use PROMO Code DR10 and you will get $10 off a $10 order and shipping is only .99!
I was able to score three soap holders and three more toothbrush cases for only $1.73.
I would do it soon - these codes won't last long!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Windex and Dove Deoderant MONEYMAKERS at CVS!
CVS is the place to be this morning.
Dove antiperspirant/deodorants which are on sale for 2/$5. and when you spend $15 you get $5 ECBs.
The CVS ECB machine in store printed out a $5 off $15 purchase - My lucky day!
I bought 6 Dove Antiperspirant/Deodorants
6 x 2.50 = $15.00 plus tax
Used $5 off $15.00 purchase and brought it down to $10.00
Then I used $3.00/2 Coupon and brought it down to $7.00
Then I used two $2.00/1 Coupon and brought it down to $3.00
Then I used two $1.50/1 Coupon and brought my subtotal down to 0!!
I paid .78 sales tax for 6 Deodorants!!
I also earned $5 ECB to be used in my next transaction!
So 6 deodorants they paid me $4.22!!
My next transaction was for Windex - Multipurpose Cleaner.
They are on sale for 2/$5
I bought 4
4 x 2.50 = $10.00
I used four $1/1 coupons that brought the total down to $6
Then I used the $5 ECB that I earned form the 1st transaction down to $1.00
1.00 subtotal plus .78 sales tax = 1.78 for all four Windex Cleaners
I will submit the receipt for the SC Johnson Rebate of $5 back when you purchase 3 products
Each rebate can be done three times per household = $4.00 MONEYMAKER
These things are all being donated and the $8.22 they paid me will be going towards buying the bags.
Dove antiperspirant/deodorants which are on sale for 2/$5. and when you spend $15 you get $5 ECBs.
The CVS ECB machine in store printed out a $5 off $15 purchase - My lucky day!
I bought 6 Dove Antiperspirant/Deodorants
6 x 2.50 = $15.00 plus tax
Used $5 off $15.00 purchase and brought it down to $10.00
Then I used $3.00/2 Coupon and brought it down to $7.00
Then I used two $2.00/1 Coupon and brought it down to $3.00
Then I used two $1.50/1 Coupon and brought my subtotal down to 0!!
I paid .78 sales tax for 6 Deodorants!!
I also earned $5 ECB to be used in my next transaction!
So 6 deodorants they paid me $4.22!!
My next transaction was for Windex - Multipurpose Cleaner.
They are on sale for 2/$5
I bought 4
4 x 2.50 = $10.00
I used four $1/1 coupons that brought the total down to $6
Then I used the $5 ECB that I earned form the 1st transaction down to $1.00
1.00 subtotal plus .78 sales tax = 1.78 for all four Windex Cleaners
I will submit the receipt for the SC Johnson Rebate of $5 back when you purchase 3 products
Each rebate can be done three times per household = $4.00 MONEYMAKER
These things are all being donated and the $8.22 they paid me will be going towards buying the bags.
$10 Food Collection Challenge.
I am super excited to use my couponing skills to try and fill 2 shopping bags for the kids Vacation Bible School.
They are collecting food for Sophies Bread Box and North Raleigh Ministries.
I am thinking that I will give them $10 a piece and see how far they can stretch it - now either you are thinking $10 is not enough or those who coupon think they could fill two bags with $10.
I'll let you know how it goes!
How far could you stretch $10 to donate to the local food bank?
Our local Salvation Army announced yesterday they would have to cut off supplying food because they were down to bare shelves...please donate what you can.
They are collecting food for Sophies Bread Box and North Raleigh Ministries.
I am thinking that I will give them $10 a piece and see how far they can stretch it - now either you are thinking $10 is not enough or those who coupon think they could fill two bags with $10.
I'll let you know how it goes!
How far could you stretch $10 to donate to the local food bank?
Our local Salvation Army announced yesterday they would have to cut off supplying food because they were down to bare shelves...please donate what you can.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Asking for Coupons - REACH Toothbrushes.
Anyone who can print some REACH Toothbrush coupons, they would be greatly appreciated!
Or print one for yourselves and send the other my way.
Just go over here http://print.coupons.com and put in zip code 77379, if they do not come up.
This is one of my favorite coupon sites, as they reset coupons quickly.
You can usually print two coupons per product before it gives you a message of coupon limit reached.
Thankfully we have two computers in the house
REACH toothbrushes are one of the staples in the Bags of Hope, as I can usually score them for free at Walgreens when they either have a sale or .99 cent promotion.
Thank you all and have a great weekend.
Or print one for yourselves and send the other my way.
Just go over here http://print.coupons.com and put in zip code 77379, if they do not come up.
This is one of my favorite coupon sites, as they reset coupons quickly.
You can usually print two coupons per product before it gives you a message of coupon limit reached.
Thankfully we have two computers in the house
REACH toothbrushes are one of the staples in the Bags of Hope, as I can usually score them for free at Walgreens when they either have a sale or .99 cent promotion.
Thank you all and have a great weekend.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
$10 Listerine Rebate - MONEY MAKER
Great rebate that you do not need a form for:
Purchase any Listerine Whitening or Rembrandt product and receive a $10 prepaid debit card
Listerine Whitening Mouthwash $5.92 - $2.00 coupon click here - http://print.coupons.com
click on personal on he left hand side to find the coupon faster.
Cost = 3.92
3.92 + $10 prepaid debit card = $6.08 Money Maker
Mail name, address and the original cash register receipt with the UPC and purchase price circled to:
'Dare to Wear" Gift
P.O. Box 4938
New York, NY 10185
Purchase product between 5/21 and 6/17; must be received by 7/1/10.
I saw the Listerine on clearance at Super target a few weeks ago for $1.98, wish I picked it up then. Still a great deal.
Some lucky people are going to have white teeth and the profit is going towarrds my bag fund to purchase, individual zippered bags to put the items in since that seems to be the only thing I don't have coupons for.
Purchase any Listerine Whitening or Rembrandt product and receive a $10 prepaid debit card
Listerine Whitening Mouthwash $5.92 - $2.00 coupon click here - http://print.coupons.com
click on personal on he left hand side to find the coupon faster.
Cost = 3.92
3.92 + $10 prepaid debit card = $6.08 Money Maker
Mail name, address and the original cash register receipt with the UPC and purchase price circled to:
'Dare to Wear" Gift
P.O. Box 4938
New York, NY 10185
Purchase product between 5/21 and 6/17; must be received by 7/1/10.
I saw the Listerine on clearance at Super target a few weeks ago for $1.98, wish I picked it up then. Still a great deal.
Some lucky people are going to have white teeth and the profit is going towarrds my bag fund to purchase, individual zippered bags to put the items in since that seems to be the only thing I don't have coupons for.
Almost FREE Toothbrush Holders and Soap Cases!!
I just scored some toothbrush holders and soap holders from the online Medco Health Store.
They are running a terrific promotion when you spend $10 you get $10 off anything and to make it better shipping is only .99.
Use the coupon code MHS10 - I bet it won't last too long, so I would hurry while you can they have all sorts things.
Make sure you enter the coupon code before checking out.
Radius Soap cases - 2 @ 1.99 = 3.98
Radius Toothbrush Holders - 4 @ 1.59 = 6.36
Total = 10.34 + .99 shipping = 11.33
$11.33 - $10 coupon code = 1.73 for all 6 items
These will be great for the bags, gotta love a deal.
They are running a terrific promotion when you spend $10 you get $10 off anything and to make it better shipping is only .99.
Use the coupon code MHS10 - I bet it won't last too long, so I would hurry while you can they have all sorts things.
Make sure you enter the coupon code before checking out.
Radius Soap cases - 2 @ 1.99 = 3.98
Radius Toothbrush Holders - 4 @ 1.59 = 6.36
Total = 10.34 + .99 shipping = 11.33
$11.33 - $10 coupon code = 1.73 for all 6 items
These will be great for the bags, gotta love a deal.
Walgreens - FREE U By Kotex and FREE Always
Walgreens has a great deal going on this week for U by Kotex for pads and tampons.
U by Kotex - Buy 1 U By Kotex Pads and get 2.50 Register Rewards (RR)
Buy 1 U by Kotex Pads at $3.49
Get back $2.50 RR, use $1/1 U By Kotex Printable Coupon Final Cost = FREE
GEt $1.oo coupon here - http://www.ubykotex.com
To make this deal even sweeter, when you buy pads you receive a Catalina (printed coupon) for any Always pads for Free (up to $3.50 Value)
Purchase 1 package of Always Pads for $3.79
Use $3.50 Catalina from above transaction - Final Cost = .29
The U by Kotex Tampons still give a great deal yielding a 2.50 Register Reward but the printed Catalina coupon for this deal is $1.50 of a future purchase of Playtex tampons.
Make sure you do each transaction seperate if getting more than one.
In other words, buying 2 packages of U By Kotex will not give you (2) $2.50 RR
This is a stock up price!!
I will be posting tabs shortly about each store and how their coupon programs work - to familiarize yourself with the Walgreens Reward Program
U by Kotex - Buy 1 U By Kotex Pads and get 2.50 Register Rewards (RR)
Buy 1 U by Kotex Pads at $3.49
Get back $2.50 RR, use $1/1 U By Kotex Printable Coupon Final Cost = FREE
GEt $1.oo coupon here - http://www.ubykotex.com
To make this deal even sweeter, when you buy pads you receive a Catalina (printed coupon) for any Always pads for Free (up to $3.50 Value)
Purchase 1 package of Always Pads for $3.79
Use $3.50 Catalina from above transaction - Final Cost = .29
The U by Kotex Tampons still give a great deal yielding a 2.50 Register Reward but the printed Catalina coupon for this deal is $1.50 of a future purchase of Playtex tampons.
Make sure you do each transaction seperate if getting more than one.
In other words, buying 2 packages of U By Kotex will not give you (2) $2.50 RR
This is a stock up price!!
I will be posting tabs shortly about each store and how their coupon programs work - to familiarize yourself with the Walgreens Reward Program
The generosity of strangers
It never ceases to amaze me that complete strangers are willing to help others.
My first thank you goes to Terese E. who responded to my post on Craigslist, he generously mailed unused coupons she had. Thank you Terese!!! They will be put to great use.
My next thank you goes to Beth from Triangle Tracks who is going to put Coupons For Change in her June newsletter and linked my blog to her site. This is wonderful exposure.
Thank you so much.
What a great way to start things off!!!
Later today I will be posting about great deals you can get with Oil of Olay products and the wonderful deals I was able to score yesterday for the shelter including $1.99 diapers.
My first thank you goes to Terese E. who responded to my post on Craigslist, he generously mailed unused coupons she had. Thank you Terese!!! They will be put to great use.
My next thank you goes to Beth from Triangle Tracks who is going to put Coupons For Change in her June newsletter and linked my blog to her site. This is wonderful exposure.
Thank you so much.
What a great way to start things off!!!
Later today I will be posting about great deals you can get with Oil of Olay products and the wonderful deals I was able to score yesterday for the shelter including $1.99 diapers.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
A typical day that turned out not so typical...
Another ordinary day, running errands and grabbing the latest bargains for my family when a chance encounter made me stop and reevaluate what is really important.
I spotted a woman with two small children trying to decide what to buy. Since I am always on the lookout to share my coupons I approached her to offer some extra ones I had when she told me her story.
A few days earlier, she took her children, fled her abusive husband and sought help at a local woman's shelter. As not to arouse her husbands suspicions she left the house carrying nothing more than a small diaper bag that she normally used to take with her when she dropped the kids off at daycare before going to work.
While she was extremely thankful that she was given emergency shelter and food, she was embarrassed that she unexpectedly needed to ask for feminine hygiene products.
She was given a small Ziploc bag filled with eight pads and told that next month she would be provided with eight more.
Needless to say I was speechless...imagine this woman who was brave enough to leave an abusive situation and ask for help for herself and children felt embarrassed by having to ask for feminine products.
I was determined to come home and write a check right away to a local shelter. Something kept stopping me. How was the money I donating going to be spent? How were these agencies going to get the most for their money? Did they know all the great deals they could get using coupons?
I spent the next few days researching local shelters and their needs. What I found has led me to create this blog.
I have found places that offer emergency shelter, food and clothing there are many things we use everyday are often overlooked.
Why did she share this story to me a complete stranger? I am not sure.
I am sure that she has inspired me to try and make a difference.
Instead of writing a check, I decided to take the money and purchase items on my own to donate.
I am starting with the $100.00 that I was going to donate to the shelter. With this money, I am hoping to create "Bags of Hope" for the local woman's shelter.
My goal is to provide a bags filled with small toiletry items such as shampoo, toothbrushes & toothpaste, deodorant, combs and other small items that would go a long way to make a person feel more human in a what can be a dehumanizing process.
Why create this blog you ask?
This is the number one by way of keeping myself accountable to my goal. It is also a way to ask others to join me.
I am not asking for money but a few moments of your time.
I will teach you how to use coupons to get things at little to no cost to you while asking for you to donate any unused coupons to my cause. Obviously, the more coupons I have the more items I can provide.
Any coupons received will be used solely for the purposes of buying items for the shelter. Coupons that are expired or not used will be sent in bulk to United States military families that are stationed throughout the world. Soldiers and their families can use coupons for up to six months after their expiration date.
Please join me in my quest to make a difference.
Cheryl
Coupons for Change
I spotted a woman with two small children trying to decide what to buy. Since I am always on the lookout to share my coupons I approached her to offer some extra ones I had when she told me her story.
A few days earlier, she took her children, fled her abusive husband and sought help at a local woman's shelter. As not to arouse her husbands suspicions she left the house carrying nothing more than a small diaper bag that she normally used to take with her when she dropped the kids off at daycare before going to work.
While she was extremely thankful that she was given emergency shelter and food, she was embarrassed that she unexpectedly needed to ask for feminine hygiene products.
She was given a small Ziploc bag filled with eight pads and told that next month she would be provided with eight more.
Needless to say I was speechless...imagine this woman who was brave enough to leave an abusive situation and ask for help for herself and children felt embarrassed by having to ask for feminine products.
I was determined to come home and write a check right away to a local shelter. Something kept stopping me. How was the money I donating going to be spent? How were these agencies going to get the most for their money? Did they know all the great deals they could get using coupons?
I spent the next few days researching local shelters and their needs. What I found has led me to create this blog.
I have found places that offer emergency shelter, food and clothing there are many things we use everyday are often overlooked.
Why did she share this story to me a complete stranger? I am not sure.
I am sure that she has inspired me to try and make a difference.
Instead of writing a check, I decided to take the money and purchase items on my own to donate.
I am starting with the $100.00 that I was going to donate to the shelter. With this money, I am hoping to create "Bags of Hope" for the local woman's shelter.
My goal is to provide a bags filled with small toiletry items such as shampoo, toothbrushes & toothpaste, deodorant, combs and other small items that would go a long way to make a person feel more human in a what can be a dehumanizing process.
Why create this blog you ask?
This is the number one by way of keeping myself accountable to my goal. It is also a way to ask others to join me.
I am not asking for money but a few moments of your time.
I will teach you how to use coupons to get things at little to no cost to you while asking for you to donate any unused coupons to my cause. Obviously, the more coupons I have the more items I can provide.
Any coupons received will be used solely for the purposes of buying items for the shelter. Coupons that are expired or not used will be sent in bulk to United States military families that are stationed throughout the world. Soldiers and their families can use coupons for up to six months after their expiration date.
Please join me in my quest to make a difference.
Cheryl
Coupons for Change
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