Any ideas for food/ activities for a party on a tight budget?

I need to throw a welcome home/ birthday party for a family member that is coming home from the hospital earlier than expected and I have VERY little time and money to get this done! Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

Well, in a pinch, spaghetti, garlic bread/rolls, and any type of veggie (like salad) works wonders!

Otherwise, a large batch of chicken salad or tuna salad with crackers, cheese, and grapes works too!

build your own hot dogs. They are inexpensive but fun when you can add your own toppings. Put out choices of toppings depending on your budget. Add a homemade cake or cupcakes and punch and you are set.

Make a breakfast quiche and cut it into bite size, (finger food). Macaroni & Spam always makes a killing at my events. Have everyone bring something.

Try an old college favorite of mine, Toast City. Put out your toaster, several different kinds of bread, and as many toppings as you can whip up. We used ham, smoked salmon, tomato relish, olive relish, jams, cream cheeses, I think you get the idea. Be inventive and have fun.

Dont under estimate premade Lasagna! Stouffers makes the best lasagna and its decently priced.

if not Chili is also a very easy and cheap meal. you can make a big pot in no time. cook up some rice with it to give people the choice of serving chili over rice.

Add some crackers, cheese and sour cream, and TAH-DAH!

2 words for you....pot luck. Involve everyone in welcoming them home.

(Just NO jello LOL)

check out some great easy ideas on the food network or kraft's website. They've both got some great ideas and the food network has some drink ideas too.

yea, a potluck is a good idea!!!
no money spent on your part!!! lol
great!!!