North Carolina Cooperative Extension - Harnett County

08/26/2026

Let’s be real: the transition from "lazy summer snacks" to "structured school lunches" can feel like a professional sport. 💨 Between the morning rush and after-school activities, meal planning isn't just a luxury—it’s a sanity saver!

Here are 3 quick tips to keep your kitchen organized and stretch your food budget this semester:

1. Switch to plant-based proteins: Beans, lentils, and eggs are nutritional powerhouses that cost a fraction of the price of meat. Swap a beef dish for a bean or lentil chili pasta to save money instantly.
2. Buy generic and in bulk: Store brands are often the same quality as name brands. Grab large bags of oats or rice instead of pre-packaged cups—you’re paying for convenience, not the food itself!
3. Shop at discount supermarkets: These stores focus on low prices and no-frills layouts. You might even need to bring your own bags.
Shop your pantry first: "Inventory night" is a lifesaver. Use up that lone jar of sauce or box of crackers before buying more. 🕵️‍♀️
Don't forget to use your SNAP benefits!

If you need help with the SNAP program, contact the "More In My Basket" team today at 1-855-240-1451.

08/19/2026

If you are between the ages of 18 and 64, do not have children, and are mentally and physically able to work, your SNAP benefits may be available for only 3 months.

This ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents) policy requires individuals in this category to work at least 20 hours per week to receive continued benefits. Otherwise, benefits will stop after those 3 months.

Keep in mind that work hours include part-time or full-time employment, volunteering, job training programs, or similar activities.

If you would like to know if you are eligible to apply for SNAP in North Carolina, visit the "More In My Basket" website at morefood.org and submit a contact form. Their team will get in touch with you within 3 business days.

08/12/2026

If you are interested in checking your SNAP eligibility, need help completing the application, or have general questions about the program, contact the More In My Basket team.

Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. You can reach their staff at the toll-free numbers listed below or by visiting their website: morefood.org.

MIMB staff are generally available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. They attend community events, so if you call and no one answers, please leave a message, and someone will return your call within 3 business days.

📞 1-855-240-1451 (English/Portuguese) 📞 1-888-382-7105 (Spanish)

08/07/2026

Free Event!

08/06/2026

If you receive SNAP benefits in North Carolina, you can buy seeds to grow your own food at home. These plants provide vegetables, fruits, and herbs, so a single purchase will put food on your table for several months. It’s a great way to make your food budget stretch as far as possible. 🪴

If you want to know more about the SNAP program or need help applying, contact the "More In My Basket" team today. They offer free eligibility assessments and application assistance to all North Carolina residents.

Call them today:

📞 1-855-240-1451 (English/Portuguese) 📞 1-888-382-7105 (Spanish)

08/05/2026

08/03/2026

Extension Master Gardener Orientation for prospective students is this Saturday August 8th from 10am-12pm located at 126 Alexander Dr Lillington NC. If you are not able to attend and are still interested follow the link to learn more and fill out an application due by Aug 24th. Class will start September 10.

Class is held once a month on the second Thursday from 1pm-5pmOrientation for prospective students is held twice a year on the second Saturday in August and first Saturday in February from 10am-12pm…

08/01/2026

If you receive SNAP benefits in North Carolina, you can buy seeds to grow your own food at home. These plants provide vegetables, fruits, and herbs, so a single purchase will put food on your table for several months. It’s a great way to make your food budget stretch as far as possible. 🪴

If you want to know more about the SNAP program or need help applying, contact the "Más En Mi Canasta" team today. They offer free eligibility assessments and application assistance to all North Carolina residents.

Call them today:

📞 1-855-240-1451 (English/Portuguese) 📞 1-888-382-7105 (Spanish)

07/27/2026

With rising temperatures this summer, it’s important to increase your water intake. But don’t forget that you can also do this by eating more foods with high water content. These include:

🍉 Watermelon, strawberries, oranges, pineapples, cantaloupe, etc.
🥒 Cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, etc.
🧉 Fruit smoothies, coconut water, homemade iced tea, etc.

Don’t forget that all these foods are SNAP-eligible! If you have any questions about SNAP in North Carolina, contact the "More In My Basket" team toll-free at 1-855-240-1451.

07/25/2026

Paige King Johnson