Written by Carla, Halifax Public Libraries' Community Specialist
One cold February night, a group of Dartmouth residents came together to have a community conversation on the topic of “Tips for Saving Money” at the Alderney Gate Public Library. Hosted by Halifax Public Libraries in partnership with the Dartmouth Community Health Team, the conversation was entirely open-ended and community members talked about a range of topics, from groceries, budgeting tips, trip planning, rebates, taxes, and more.
The following recommendations came directly from participants. Many households are experiencing the crunch of inflation—our hope is that their money-saving tips will help others, encourage new conversations, and more info-sharing.
This week: we're highlighting community financial tips and tricks to help you boost your wellness.
Clothing Tips
- Holy Trinity Church in North Dartmouth has a free clothing bank on Wednesdays from 10:00AM-12:00PM.
- Some neighbourhoods host clothing swaps, so keep an eye on Facebook events. Eastern Passage has a free clothing swap that is phenomenal.
- Occasionally, there are events at the Halifax Forum where you bring a bag of clothing and pay $10 (which is donated to charity), and then you receive a bunch of new clothes
- If you are living rough or cash-strapped, the Salvation Army will provide a voucher to purchase clothing at any of their stores—just call their phone number and tell them you need support now.
- Some stores such as Old Navy, Bluenotes, etc. have discounts if you sign up for their e-newsletter. Some people recommended using multiple email accounts to get an intro discount (typically 10-25% off). If you subscribe, sometimes there will be e-offers that are not publicly released.
Sport & Wellness Tips
- A free sports equipment giveaway event takes place at the Dartmouth North Boys and Girls Club every May.
- HRM Funding Access Application, opens a new window can help families save money on HRM Recreation programs.
- Zatzman Sportsplex has a Pay What You Can, opens a new window membership.
- Each year, Cleves has a giant liquidation event at the Halifax Forum where you can get massive discounts on sports equipment. Follow them on social media to stay up to date. Most stores offer seniors discounts. Typically, a lot of stores choose either Tuesday or Wednesday as the seniors discount days.
- The Seniors Care Grant, opens a new window provides up to $750 for household, care, and heating costs. To be eligible, you have to be a senior 65+ who makes less than $37,500 per year.
- LakeCity Works offers free lawn care to seniors living in Dartmouth over the summertime. For more information call (902) 465-5000.
Women's Health Tips
- Using a menstrual cup can save a ton of money. One cup costs about $30 and can last about 12 years. Period panties are also a reusable and very affordable option.
- Sobeys' Pharmacy offers Baby Be Healthy, opens a new window, a program that provides free prenatal vitamins for women.
Looking for more tips and tricks to help you save? Read it on the blog, opens a new window.
Add a comment to: Community Conversations: Self-Care