Dollar stores are problematic. Among their proposed impacts, some claim they push out “Main Street” mom and pops and “rip off poor folks.”
But in Weiner, AR, (our hometown; population 683) Dollar General is the only place you can get milk or bread without driving 29 miles. Cost in gas + time is probably greater than supermarket savings. (Maybe we’ll do the math next time we visit!) For some of our neighbors between paychecks, a dollar store may be all there is.
If a dollar store is the only game in town in your hometown and your hometown has a mini pantry, you can add impact to what you give by stocking up and giving items that are more expensive at dollar stores.
spices, which may seem cheaper but are packaged at lower net weights
chips and pretzels
coffee products
condiments
baking soda/flour
canned vegetables
While your neighbors between paychecks will appreciate pasta, rice, dried beans and oatmeal, dollar stores offer competitive prices on these items. Why not get them more bang for your buck?
