Hey Reader,
Hi [First Name],
Y’all know I have always loved supporting my local food systems. One of my favorite ways to do that is by heading out to my local CSA (community supported agriculture), Farmer Mike’s, to pick out my own fresh, seasonal produce straight from the farm. There’s something so satisfying about walking through the farm stand, choosing what my family will eat for the week, and knowing exactly where it all comes from.
There’s just something special about connecting with the people who grow or catch your food, wether it be farmers, ranchers or fishermen. Earlier this week, I grabbed some fresh stone crab from a local fisherman, which was perfect for a stay at home date night.
Between the CSA pickup and my stone crab haul, my fridge is stocked with high-quality, delicious food—and I saved so much money. It’s a win for my family and a win for our local community.
Here’s why:
- No grocery store run for produce. Thanks to my CSA membership at Farmer Mikes, I didn’t need to buy produce this week. Everything we needed was already fresh and ready to go. (For those who are unfamiliar with how CSA programs work- I already paid "seed money" for my produce at the beginning of the growing season, so I didn't have to pay for my produce this week.)
- No pricey date night. The stone crab became a luxurious at-home dinner that not only lasted two nights but also fed some friends. It felt indulgent, but it cost way less than eating out at a restaurant here in Naples!
This experience is an example of how buying local can save, and it’s not just about money. Local food is fresher, it lasts longer (less waste!), and it supports the farmers and fishermen who keep our community thriving. A higher percentage of your money stays in the local economy when you shop local as opposed to big box stores.
Why Buying Local Works:
- It’s affordable. Local food skips the middleman, so you avoid paying for shipping and packaging.
- It’s fresher. Food from local sources lasts longer because it hasn’t traveled thousands of miles to get to you.
- It’s seasonal. Local farmers often offer great deals on what’s in season and abundant.
If you’re looking for ways to save on groceries and enjoy fresher, better-tasting food, I can’t recommend buying local enough. Check out your local farmers’ market, join a CSA like Farmer Mike’s, or even look for seafood from nearby fishermen.
As a bonus I was able to compost all my food waste using my amazing Mill food recycler. This weekend really was a win in my books when it came to saving money, eating well, and reducing my food waste!
Do you enjoy supporting your local food system too? Reply back and let me know!
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Here are a few of my most popular blog posts for this time of year. If you haven't already checked them out, now is a good time!
Cheers to a week of savings,
Hannah
Eat, Drink, and Save Money
Smart Spending for a Richer Life
P.S. I’d love to hear how you shop locally! Hit reply or share them on Instagram and tag me @hannah.rinaldi.
