Using materials developed by UK Family & Consumer Sciences Extension during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Todd County Extension Agent for FCS taught Use Less, Spend Less, Stress Less to Extension Homemaker members in 9 counties in the Pennyrile Area.  

The goal of the program was to encourage homemakers to become more mindful consumers and stretch their resources, finances, and relationships.   Extension Homemakers were given a Use Less, Spend Wise Challenge and asked to complete 16 activities designed to help them reduce useless consumption (use less), become mindful spenders (spend less), and discover safe ways to connect with others despite COVID restrictions or hardships (priceless).  

Eighteen members from six counties completed 278 household activities: 106 Use Less, 89 spend wisely, and 83 priceless. For example, 94% reported ditching disposable products such as paper plates; 94% decluttered spaces; 94% used reusable bottles; 78% used pantry items before buying new; 78% challenged themselves to a no-spend day; 83% went for a hike on a free trail; 89%unplugged from technology and read a book; 72% made a homemade gift; and 83% treated themselves with some no-cost TLC.  Eight people reported keeping a daily spending diary during the challenge and were surprised at some of the spending habits they had--candy purchases, impulse buying, buying because items were on sale; and subscriptions.  Nine people reported making a basic budget and eight identified personal spending leaks during the challenge.

When asked their biggest takeaway from the challenge, participants said: cut costs and pay attention to spending; make lists; buy sale items only if needed; reusable items instead of disposable products; think of ways to save—make a conscious effort to see costs and question need; and giving time is more valuable than material objects.