WEYBURN -
One of my favourite game shows is The Price is Right.
I watch the new version with Drew Carey, but whenever I can, I watch the iconic Bob Barker.
The games are fun to watch and, of course, the big showcase showdown at the end always has me yelling out numbers that no one can hear (except possibly my neighbours).
The cost of grocery items back in the day is almost surreal. I was a child/teen when most of those shows were filmed, so my recollection of prices doesn’t quite go back that far.
It’s shocking how much more groceries cost now than 10 or 20 years ago. Inflation has driven the prices up, but there are more factors that we do not see as consumers.
Producer costs have also risen dramatically, and therefore that is passed on to consumers.
Recently the government issued a Grocery Rebate to offset the rising costs. It was included in the July GST payment.
I still have not quite figured out how they assess who needs or qualified for the rebate. My feeling is that we ALL could use a little extra!
It has become almost essential to bargain shop, check the flyers, and take advantage of sales and customer appreciation days.
I walk down the aisles of the grocery store and think “that price can’t be right.” Bob? Bob?!
I find myself buying less, buying more often and being more aware of what is necessary and what is not. Two bags of groceries can easily cost $100. Not long ago, that would fill a cart!
Another result of the high price of groceries is that donations to the food bank are down, and the number of individuals and families making use of that resource has risen.
I’m encouraged by Weyburn’s generosity. There are posts on Facebook regularly from people who cook extra, just so they can share. Produce is also being shared around the city by avid gardeners.
If you have - give, if you need - ask.
