One of the most common questions I get about meal ministry is about the cost. Food is expensive, but not only that the cost of packing it up can be just as expensive. Some throw-away containers are more costly than glass containers that can be used over again.
Here are a few examples I found at Marc’s that I wanted to share with you. When you’re out and about- keep your eyes peeled, then just stock pile good deals away for when you might use them.
It saves money and just makes sense.
Look at these beautiful cups with saucers- for just $1.99 for a pair! I immediately thought “Housewarming gift” – buy 6 for just $12.
This fruit bowl is adorable. For just $2.99, you can’t purchase a throw-away for under that. I would fill it with fruit salad for someone who is not feeling well and let them keep the dish.
The beautiful dish I shared at the top of the post was just $2.99 – again, a throw-away is pricier! I would make a calzone and wrap it on this plate and let my friend keep it.
Do you know of a child who could use a “pick me up”? These little sundae bowls are precious. For just 99 cents, I would buy 6, bring over ice cream and some toppings….
Creamed Chicken Crepes are one of my most sought after recipes- but they are hard to transport! For just 67 cents a piece these crepe dishes are worth buying.
Isn’t this a beautiful tray? If you have more than one thing to transport $4.99 is a deal. You could unload it and keep it yourself, or give it as a gift with the meal items.
This cute little basket was $4.97 – it would work great filled with sugar cookies for a little girl who isn’t feeling well.
Where do you get the best deals?!
Is this store a national chain or is it a local one for you? We don’t have it here in Michigan. Is it all brand new stuff? Great ideas!
Hi Julie! Marc’s is a local grocery store that gets close-outs from different stores in our area. I loved when they got Mikasa items! They have an area of just Target close-outs as well- All items are brand new! Love Marc’s!
I get a ton of dishes for giving away at Goodwill. You can always pick up something there for $.50 to $3.00. Great for giving away, and telling them to keep the dish, or pay forward when then can. I do the same for potlucks. I can leave the dish behind, and not worry about it.
LOVE Goodwill! I have my favorites…do you too? lol!
I never thought of this fact before. You are brilliant.
LOL! Thank you Phyllis <3 Sometimes it's the little things, isn't it?
Thanks so much for the great tips! I usually buy foil disposables from a dollar store, but this makes it much nicer for the recipient.
Thank you for posting this! I’m going to start looking at thrift stores for items to use. Thank you, too, for posting little ideas – like- ice cream to go with the cute bowls and cookies for a child that is ill. Sometimes, they just need a pick me up. 🙂 It’s nice to know that it doesn’t always need to be a full meal.
Absolutely Sheila! It really is the fact someone is thinking of you….that goes a long way. <3