This article is part of Global News’ series ‘On the Brink,’ which highlights individuals grappling with the increasing cost of living. This particular story features a woman who utilizes couponing to save money for her family.
As economic instability leads to fluctuating grocery prices, Canadians are feeling the pinch as their purchasing power diminishes.
According to government statistics, Canada engages in billions of dollars worth of grocery trade with the U.S., including $72.6 billion in agricultural and food products.
Due to a trade conflict, access to food and groceries for Canadians could become more challenging, warns Matt Poirier, vice-president of federal government relations for the Retail Council of Canada.
More families are now on the lookout for budgeting and saving strategies.
Introducing Kathleen Cassidy, the mind behind Living on a Loonie – an Instagram platform dedicated to helping people discover ways to save and snag deals.
Cassidy, a couponing enthusiast from Toronto, noted that rising grocery prices have changed people’s attitudes toward couponing and savings.
“People are now willing to invest more time and effort into couponing, which was once seen as a time-consuming task,” Cassidy shared.
After starting her account while in university in 2020, Cassidy experienced a surge in interest as the implications of COVID-19 unfolded.
Now, five years later, she has over 217,000 followers and has noticed fluctuations in interest linked to inflationary trends, including the current trade war.
With tariffs likely to affect prices in various sectors, Cassidy offers tips for saving money.
“Start small. I suggest focusing on one saving method, mastering it, and then exploring other options,” she advised.
Cassidy pointed out that brand loyalty and not exploring other options can impede savings.
She highlighted that coupons may be available for brands you haven’t tried or for new market entrants.
“It’s essential to be open to trying new products to secure good deals, while also understanding sales cycles to maximize savings,” she stated.
Cassidy encourages individuals to start budgeting and tracking their spending habits.
“Though it requires some time, dedicating just 15 to 20 minutes each day on an Excel spreadsheet helped me immensely,” she explained.
“You’ll gain insights into your expenditures, allowing for minor adjustments to cover rising costs, especially for essential items.”
For newcomers, she suggests starting with fundamental planning, such as weekly meal prep and shopping lists, along with reviewing sales flyers.
“Often, food waste is a significant concern. People may overlook that throwing away spoiled produce equates to wasting their hard-earned money,” Cassidy remarked.
Through couponing, Cassidy has been able to support her family while also giving back to her community.
“It has been financially beneficial for my family, enabling me to acquire essential items at great discounts,” she stated.
“This aids in our financial stability, allowing us to save for enjoyable experiences or, during tough times, allocate funds to where they’re most needed.”
The fourth installment of Global News’ revamped On the Brink series will be published next Saturday.
— with contributions from Global News’ Saba Aziz
If you have a personal experience related to the cost of living that you would like to share, please email us below.
