This story was provided as part of the Food Finder Strathcona campaign brought to you by Strathcona County's Food Security Action Table.

Aline Potter is a busy mom of three as she balances work, being a student and caring for her family. With a busy household, every penny counts and she’s become an expert at stretching her grocery budget without compromising on nutrition and quality. But for this savvy mom, this balancing act is just part of her routine. Not only does she master the art of smart shopping, but she also shares her success by giving back to those around her.   

Smart shopping tips and tricks 

Despite her hectic schedule, she carefully plans her shopping, hunts for deals, price matches and uses coupons to make sure the family’s needs are met. Aline knows how to stretch a dollar and has a deep understanding of budget-friendly strategies. Here are some of her go-to tips: 

• Create detailed lists and know exactly what you need: Aline never heads to the store without a clear plan. This not only saves time but also prevents unnecessary purchases, ensuring that she stays within her budget. 

• Bulk buying once a month: She shops for non-perishable items and essentials once a month, taking advantage of bulk-buying opportunities and targets specific deal days like case lot sales or stores with 15% off Tuesdays. 

• Meal planning and perimeter shopping for perishables: She typically shops the perimeter of the store once a week for items that align with her meal planning.  

• Eat before you go: This simple but effective strategy prevents Aline from making impulse purchases based on hunger. 

• Plenty of storage: A key to buying in bulk is having a well-planned pantry and freezer, as it allows you to store and organize large quantities of food efficiently, ensuring nothing goes to waste. 

• Food saving techniques: Extend the shelf life of your food by properly packaging it through canning, vacuum sealing or use of sealable containers.  

• Coupons, price matching and discount apps: Aline is a pro at couponing, frequently utilizing apps like Flipp App, which allows her to keep track of sales, promotions and flyers for multiple stores. Don’t be afraid to ask for price matches at stores that offer this option. Pre-circle your product in the Flipp App from competitors to get the lowest possible price.  

• Rain checks: If a store runs out of an item that's on sale, take advantage of rain checks, so you can return at a later time to purchase the item at the sale price. 

• Scanning code of practice: Aline checks prices at the register, knowing that if an item scans higher than the advertised price, many stores will offer it for free or at a discount. 

• Unapologetic but kind: Aline knows her rights as a consumer and politely holds stores accountable when needed. Whether it’s a pricing mistake, a coupon issue, or a promotion problem, she addresses it with kindness and respect. This approach not only helps her get the right price but shows respect to store employees.   

Giving back 

In her circles, Aline has earned the name ‘The Queen” as her talent for savings has allowed her to give back in meaningful ways. She isn’t just focused on finding great deals for her family—she’s committed to contributing her great deals to those in her community.    

With a big heart, she’s always making care packages and food hampers, which wouldn’t be possible without her careful shopping. Her passion for giving back and paying it forward is something she models and actively teaches her kids. She regularly donates to the food bank and many local organizations. With many families struggling with the increased costs of food, she also shares her money-saving tips with those around her, helping others stretch their dollars and encouraging them to do the same. 

A model of smart spending and giving 

Aline exemplifies the power of smart shopping, not just for the benefit of her family, but for her community as well. Her ability to save, coupled with her desire to give, makes her a role model for others looking to make a positive impact both at home and in their neighbourhoods. She’s proof that with a little planning, creativity, and a heart for giving, you can make a difference.