Stockpiling can prepare you for many emergencies

A couple of months ago, we heard from readers who do not want to stock up on groceries at any cost, for any reason. That column led to a flood of email in support of stockpiling. Many readers make excellent points about stocking up.

Read on:

"Our church leaders have suggested food storage for ages! Currently, they suggest we build up a three-month supply of the items we use daily. After we establish a three-month supply, they suggest we work toward a year supply of the basics, such as flour, shortening, sugar. College students are asked to have a two-week food supply and money to get themselves home.

"Anyone who voluntarily won't stock up must believe the following:

--That they and their family will never experience financial hardship.

--That our country's food production industry and/or transportation system will never break down in any way.

--That fuel costs will always be reasonable.

--That events that keep food from reaching the grocery shelf will never occur.

--That their ability to get to the grocery store will never be impaired by injury, illness or car trouble.

"Recent world events are evidence that crazy things happen! Stocking up, even minimally, is equal to peace of mind!"

I agree. During our last big snowstorm in Chicago, the local news was buzzing with stories of how severe the storm would be, showing video of supermarkets running out of staples as people rushed to the stores. I turned to my husband and said, "Let it snow. We don't have to leave the house for weeks!"

We were only snowed in for about three days, but we never worried about eating well. Neither did any of my Super-Couponing blog readers, who posted messages about how well-prepared they were when three feet of snow brought most of Chicago to a beautiful, impassable standstill.

Here are some more great comments from readers:

--"The advantages of stockpiling go beyond the obvious cost issue. ... That extra (container) of mustard or grated cheese is really appreciated when you are in your slippers, the store is 10 miles away" and it is cold outside.

"Having a stockpile protects you against rises in prices, too. "

--"I budget a set amount when I go shopping and I use the store flier plus coupons. ... I also purchase a few extra items to stockpile. A few months ago, I had surgery. ... I am able to shop from my freezer and cupboards most nights."

Jill Cataldo is a coupon workshop instructor, writer and mother of three. Visit www.jillcataldo.com.