by Julie Michael

Created on: September 19, 2010

If you have a low income or are suffering from money problems - as most of the population occasionally does - then it's likely that even the prospect of trying to shop for groceries can be stressful or seem impossible. But there are ways to not only shop for groceries on a low income, but also to fully stock your food pantry without stressing out. In most cases, all it takes to keep your food pantry stocked on a low income is a little bit of imagination and ingenuity.

Don't be afraid to ask for help.

If you are just one of the many unfortunate who has a low income or are unemployed, you may need to apply for food stamps or other forms of public assistance. If you continually find yourself without money to pay all of your bills AND buy groceries, then food stamps may be the answer for you and your family.

Most states have information about their food stamp program online, along with other forms of assistance that they will provide. Check your local Department of Human Services or Resources website for more information.

Sometimes you can get help with rent through the Housing Authority or reduced utility bills through your local agencies. Either of these options can help you and your family to free up more income, even if you don't get food stamps, to be able to fully stock your food pantry without taking money from your rent and utility budget.

Avoid buying the most expensive brand or "convenience foods."

Many times, people are convinced that name brand foods are better than off-brand or generic brands - in most cases, there is no difference taste-wise or nutritionally. Purchasing frozen foods that are microwavable or pre-packaged meals are a quick way to break your budget, simply to "save time."

Cooking from scratch or without buying convenience foods doesn't really take much more time and you will find that it is definitely cheaper than buying things that are pre-packaged for convenience.

Check classifieds online such as Craigslist or Freecycle for offers of free food or coupons.

Many times, someone who is moving will offer a large amount of canned goods or dried beans and pastas (items that can easily stock a pantry and don't go bad quickly.) for free. The only thing usually required of the recipient is that they pick it up themselves, most times the value of the free food more than outweighs the cost of the gasoline required to go pick it up.

A good rule of thumb when someone offers free food, make sure it is fully sealed and hasn't been tampered with, and

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