Seeing more and more news related to financial struggles and military families, our News 6 Correspondent wanted to talk about it. For this week’s Milspouse Empowerment Moment, Jolene gives us tips to help stretch your paycheck. 1 in 5 military families experienced food insecurity in 2021, which is an increase from 2020. This can be attributed to many things, including a spouse under or unemployed, moving expenses, inflation, and more.

Below are the links shared in this Milspouse Empowerment Moment:

• SNAP at Food and Nutrition Service
• Summer Food Service Program to help bridge the summer gap between school sessions
• Feeding America
• Food Pantries
• Some Armed Services YMCAs offer food pantries
• Clever Girl Finance to help get you started with seven budget template
• Check out a MEM from Chrissy Gibbs, our Content Curator, where she specifically talks about staying on budget.
• Military Times wrote a good piece in 2021 to help you understand how the Commissary can save you money – if you are a conscious shopper.
• Save Money With This
• Honey is a great resource to use when shopping online.
• DOD’s brand new website.
• Blue Star Museums
• Check out these ideas to get started on increasing your income!
• Ask for a raise.
• More help asking for a raise.
• Plan a fun night! Movie Night at Home, Dinner Picnic in the Park, Game Night, Arts & Crafts Night! My personal favorite artist who I totally love for super simple-to-follow tutorials that ANYONE can do.

Thank you to today’s sponsor, First Command Financial Services. With four out of five financial coaches coming from the ranks of military spouses or veterans, they’re uniquely qualified to help you pursue financial security. Visit www.firstcommand.com to learn more and find a financial coach near you.

To hear Jolene’s tips for stretching your paycheck, watch the Facebook video click here – or listen below.

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