The "No Buy" Trend That's Heating Up Summer

Hey Glow Getters,

Let’s keep it real, fam. Summer is flying by and Pastor Jamal Bryant has kept our money all the way up by encouraging us to stay out of Target all season. Yes, hunni, we’ll just be taking all of our back-to-school money spending energy to Costco this year, instead of the other big box store. This week, I’m leaning into intentional spending (say it with me) intentional spending, so we can all keep our wallets (and money goals) intact as we roll into August.

From joining the “No-Buy July” movement, to snagging that NAACP PowerShift grant, to prepping for what could be a new stimulus check in 2025, I’ve got your money moves lined up and ready for your glow-up.

Let’s get into it…

🎒 Back-to-School, But Make It Budget-Friendly
Parents, aunties, mentors, and homegirls: it’s that time of year. Between school supplies, tech, and fall wardrobe updates, back-to-school costs can stack up fast. But there’s no need to overspend.

Here are 3 quick ways to save:

1. Shop Tax-Free Weekends – Many states offer tax breaks on school-related purchases in late July or early August. Check your state’s dates here.

2. Use Cashback Apps – Rakuten, Ibotta, Be Frugal and Honey can save you serious coin when buying backpacks, sneakers, or laptops.

3. Join a Buy-Nothing Group – Search Facebook for local “Buy Nothing” communities. You’d be surprised how many people give away nearly new school supplies and clothes.

🛑 No-Buy July is the Summer Detox Your Wallet Needs
Sometimes, the smartest financial move is not spending at all.

No-Buy July is a fast-growing trend where people commit to skipping unnecessary purchases all month. No takeout. No new shoes. No impulse Amazon buys. Just you, your budget, and your goals.

Want to try it?

• Make a “no-buy” list (ex: clothes, Uber Eats, home decor)

• Make a “yes” list (ex: groceries, bills, gas)

• Track what you would’ve spent and celebrate what you save!

🧠 Read more about the No-Buy trend here

💰 $1,390 Stimulus Check Coming in 2025? Here’s What We Know
There’s buzz about a possible $1,390 relief check in 2025 for eligible Americans. While nothing’s official yet, lawmakers are in talks, and some proposals are gaining traction.

This potential check could go to low-to-moderate-income families, similar to past COVID relief models.

📝 What you should do now:

• File your taxes, if you haven’t already (even if you don’t owe!)

• Make sure your direct deposit info is up to date with the IRS

• Keep receipts of 2024 expenses if you’re a freelancer or caregiver

📲 Get the details on who's eligible

🚀 Calling All Entrepreneurs: Apply for the NAACP Powershift Grant
Need cash to grow your hustle? The NAACP is offering PowerShifter Grants to help entrepreneurs launch or scale their business.

This grant supports small businesses and startups across industries—no strings attached. Whether you're building a beauty brand, media company, or tech solution, this could be the game changer you need.

🤑 Grant Amount: Up to $10,000
🗓️ Deadline: November 1, 2025
📌 Apply here via NAACP.org

✨ One Last Glow-Up Thought

Money is not just about math—it’s about mindset. Whether you’re skipping Starbucks for a week (and Target runs indefinitely) and applying for grants, every move you make gets you closer to a financial glow-up.

This month, challenge yourself to pause, plan, and protect your coin, hon. September’s coming… and we’re stacking savings and securing checks.

Now here’s your homework: paste a link to this newsletter in your group chat and tag that friend who’s always saying she’s “tired of being broke.” You’re helping her shine, and not just because you’re tired of hearing her talk about being broke, too!

With gratitude and glow,

Markette Sheppard
Editor | The Financial Glow-Up
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www.glowstreamtv.com | @GlowStreamTV

markettesheppard

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