Mom Feeds Family of Six on About $4 a Week

Tip 3: Ask Store About Doubled Coupons

Sometimes, Spencer said, stores will be willing to double the value of the coupons.

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At one store, she picked up a frozen pizza that was on sale for $1. She only had a 50-cent coupon but, after asking, the store doubled it, allowing her to buy the pizza for free.

"The kids are happy," she said.

Tip 4: Combine Store and Manufacturer Coupons

Some stores, like CVS, accept store coupons as well as manufacturer coupons. In addition to coupons, CVS' ExtraCare cardholders get nearly 2 percent back on every $1 they spend at the store, regardless of sales or special offers.

By combining the two, Spencer was able to get two scented spray candles and a 2-ounce, soy-based candle for 5 cents.

Back home, Spencer's pantry is full with stuff that she got for nothing.

"This is a surplus of everything that works out free," she said. "This is where, if anyone needs food, this is where they come. It's our own personal stockpile of food."

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Spencer said what she doesn't use she donates to friends, family and food pantries.

For more information, head to Spencer's Web site, "How to Shop for Free," by clicking here.

Need Some Budget-Conscious Meal Ideas?

Try these:

Ham and Cheese Waffle Sandwhich

S-t-r-e-t-c-h-e-d Meat Loaf With a Choice of Toppings

Salmon Casserole

Spaghetti With White Beans and Tuna

Skirt Steak Fajitas With Lime and Black Pepper

Sara's BBQ Chicken Grilled Pizza