- This event has passed.
Back to Basics: Healthy Eating on a Budget
SEEDS (Sustainable Energy Education and Development Support) of NEPA is partnering with Wayne Memorial Hospital to present a free community program, “Healthy Eating on a Budget,” on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at The Stourbridge Tech Hub at 646 Park Street in Honesdale, PA at 6:00pm. This family-focused event will offer practical strategies for meal planning, reducing food waste, and stretching grocery dollars—just in time for the back-to-school season.
With food prices continuing to rise, many families are seeking ways to maintain healthy eating habits without overspending. Wayne Memorial Hospital’s nutrition team will deliver an engaging presentation featuring budget-friendly meal planning tips, grocery shopping resources, and food waste reduction strategies.
According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap and UnitedForAlice’s 2024 Household Survival Budget, the average cost of a meal in Wayne County is about $3.70, slightly below the national average. Yet nearly 14 percent of residents—more than 7,000 people—struggle with food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to nutritious meals. For a family of four, the estimated monthly food budget needed to meet basic nutritional needs is roughly $1,500, or $18,000 per year. “Families are feeling the pinch at the grocery store,” said SEEDS Development Director Michele Long. “This program helps parents make smart, sustainable choices that support both their health and their wallets.”
Healthy eating and sustainability go hand in hand. Reducing food waste conserves resources, lowers household expenses, and minimizes environmental impact. By learning how to plan meals efficiently and shop mindfully, families can enjoy nutritious meals while contributing to a more sustainable community.
This program was made possible with funding awarded to SEEDS from the Wayne County Community Foundation.