Use Less, Spend Wi$e Challenge helping insecure resource populations

Americans spent more than 1 trillion dollars during the holidays in 2018. That number rose another 4.5% in 2019. In comparison, holiday spending at an all-time high pre-pandemic, many families across Kentucky may have less to spend during the 2020 holiday season. COVID-19 financial challenges might cause people to adjust their holiday budgets. When tighter budgets are coupled with pandemic-related supply shortages, it is crucial to learn smarter ways to stretch consumer dollars and resources. To raise awareness and help consumers meet this need, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service challenged families to join the Use Less, Spend Wi$e Challenge during mid-November. Participants completed activities designed to help them use less, spend wisely, and discover low-cost ways to connect with others.

The Hickman County Extension Office participated in the Use Less, Spend Wi$e Challenge. During mid-November, two consumers filled out the online survey, and 16 families participated via distance learning using a paper packet through the Christmas Assistance program with the Mission House and Family Resource Youth Service Center.

Participants were asked to complete an online evaluation survey following the challenge. Of the two survey respondents, activities were finished from the “use less” category, such as tap the thermostat; activities were completed from the “spend wisely” category, such as pack a lunch and shop your pantry; and activities were completed from the “priceless” category, such as read a book and gift your time.

Of the distance respondents, twelve reported keeping a daily spending diary for a week. Asked what about their spending habits surprised them, they answered about needs/wants, grocery purchases, and savings from conserving energy. Twelve reported using the Basic Budget Builder worksheet during the challenge. Of the respondents, all identified personal spending leaks during the challenge, including impulse buying, crafts/hobbies, soda/coffee, and chips.

Participants learned new ways to save time and money, be mindful, and write down financials to help identify extra cash for the month. One noted, “Stop spending money on unnecessary things and start saving. You never know what will happen like COVID and lose your income.” Another said, “I learned ways to conserve electricity. I gave my friends some clothes and food after going through my things. It was good to declutter, but more importantly, I helped someone in need.”